Opening Doors to Higher Education Through Community Outreach

Published on June 01, 2026

by Jeniffer Viscarra, Vice Mayor

At my recent Town Hall, guest speaker Veritza Kostovski from the TRIO Educational Opportunity Center shared valuable insights about college affordability. The discussion covered direct and indirect college costs—tuition, books, housing, and transportation—and explored funding options like grants, scholarships, and loans. We also compared colleges of interest to residents, making the session practical and engaging.

Ms. Kostovski emphasized the importance of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in determining aid eligibility. She explained that dependency status is crucial for financial aid and in-state tuition, noting that simply moving to a new state doesn’t guarantee in-state rates. The conversation also highlighted the Florida Bright Futures scholarship, which has benefited many local students.

Recognizing that everyone’s educational path is unique, Ms. Kostovski discussed opportunities for adults returning to school, including apprenticeships and “career in a year” programs—practical routes to stable, in-demand jobs for working adults. These options reflect TRIO’s commitment to supporting lifelong learners.

TRIO has been an important resource in our community since 1992, supporting FIU families through programs like Upward Bound and Student Support Services. Miami Dade College has also hosted TRIO programs since 2006. By hosting Ms. Kostovski at a Town Hall, our residents gained insight in navigating financial aid and scholarships – a valuable service delivered via community outreach…for free.

However, concerns were raised about shifting priorities in the Department of Education that could impact TRIO’s mission. Ms. Kostovski described how TRIO provides free tutoring, academic coaching, and SAT prep to diverse students nationwide—a lifeline for working families facing rising costs.

TRIO is an essential support system for expanding access to higher education. Its mission should be honored and fully funded to empower future generations. I urge residents to contact Senators Rick Scott and Ashley Moody and Representative Frederica Wilson to advocate for TRIO’s continued funding. Find your representatives here: https://www.congress.gov/members/find-your-member.

Contact Vice Mayor Jeniffer Viscarra at seat4@sibfl.net or 305.792.1750.