On Thursday, March 11th, South Salem High School’s WOU Project students paid it forward by teaching Richmond Elementary School’s 5th graders about the importance of getting a high school diploma and going on to higher education.

The WOU (Western Oregon University) Project is a part of the school district’s College Preparation Program, coordinated by Cathy Tilley. The WOU Project is located at various Salem-Keizer High Schools and consists of a group of students who are personally guided through the entire college application process beginning in the summer of their senior year. These students are motivated to go on to higher education and will be the first in their family to graduate from college. The premise of the WOU Project is to “Pay It Forward” to friends and family members with the information they have learned in order to help others go on to higher education.

For more information about the WOU Project and College Preparation Program, contact Cathy Tilley at 503-399-3000.