Employees in the financial aid office at Spoon River College will present free workshops at district high schools. These workshops are for students, their parents, and any adult learners who are interested in learning more about options for paying for college.
Following an overview of the aid programs available, staff will also assist attendees with filling out and filing the 2026-2027 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
“Filling out the FAFSA is always the first step to take in order to obtain federal and state aid for college, and also to apply for scholarships,” said Nikki Rittenhouse, financial aid director at Spoon River College. “I can’t stress enough how important it is to have it completed accurately and on time.”
FAFSA applications can be filed beginning October 1, using 2024 income tax information, rather than waiting until January 1, 2026 or after. The school code for all locations of Spoon River is 001643, and this code is needed to complete the FAFSA application. More than one college can be listed on the application.
Rittenhouse noted that information about other financial assistance programs such as funding for veterans, scholarships, student loans, and payment plans will also be presented, and even those not planning on attending Spoon River College are welcome to attend.
