The TRIO SSS program helps students overcome economic, social, and academic boundaries to higher education by assisting with basic college requirements and providing students with needed services and support.
We are invested in your success!
We are a committed team of staff, tutors, and mentors who will help you shape your signature student experience by creating a personalized Academic Success and Career Plan. This plan, combined with the effort of your team and your personal motivation to succeed, will help guide you through your first two years of college.
Student Testimonials and Achievements
Upcoming TRIO SSS Events
WINTER QT 2025-2026
SPILL THE BEANS is Cancelled for Friday 1/23/26
The SKC Undergraduate Scholarship Deadline: January 26, 2026 at 11:59pm MST.
Welcome Back, SKC TRIO SSS Scholars!
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Welcome back to campus for the Winter Quarter!
We hope your winter break was restful and that you are returning to Salish Kootenai College with renewed energy. As you transition back into your studies, remember that your TRIO SSS team is here to support the "whole you"—not just your academic transcript.
At TRIO SSS, we practice holistic advising, which means we care about your dreams, your well-being, and your success beyond just checking off course requirements. Whether you are facing "invisible burdens" like transportation or childcare gaps, or simply need to celebrate a win, our doors are open.
Preparing for a Successful Winter Quarter
To help you kick off the term, we encourage you to stop by for a "Holistic Pulse Check". Let’s chat about:
- Your Capacity: How much "gas" do you have in your tank to start the quarter?
- Your Support System: Who is in your corner this quarter to help you reach Spring quarter?
- Your Resources: Do you need a "warm hand-off" to the Food Pantry, Counseling Center, or the Math Lab?
Moving from Access to Success
We view you as "At-Promise" students with the strengths necessary to overcome any "Hidden Curriculum" or obstacles that college life may throw your way. Don't wait until the "Mid-Quarter Fade" to reach out—come see us early to build your success plan together.
Let’s make this quarter your best one yet. We are honored to be part of your journey.
— Your ASPIRE TRIO SSS Team
Kathie, Allen, Sunshine, and Montan
For additional information, please contact: sunshine_gaither@skc.edu
Applying to TRIO SSS
TRIO SSS Eligibility Requirements: participants must be an admitted SKC student and meet at least one, and preferably two, of the following three requirements:
- Income eligible as defined by the U.S. Department of Education
- First-generation college student: Be from a family from which neither parent or guardian has a bachelor’s degree
- Have a documented disability and be registered with SKC's campus Disability Services.
How to Apply
TRIO SSS Grant Aid-CLOSED
TRIO Student Support Services Grant Aid is made possible through funds from the U.S. Department of Education to eligible TRIO SSS students on an annual basis. The purpose of Grant Aid is to assist in supporting the successful progress toward and achievement of academic goals.
Apply now and enjoy a unique educational experience that blends Western academic knowledge with Native American perspectives and practices. Benefit from smaller class sizes, personalized attention, and opportunities for hands-on learning and research. Join a supportive community that values cultural diversity and academic excellence, and prepare for a successful career and leadership role in your community. Apply today and start your journey towards a brighter future at SKC!