This year’s historic FAFSA completion numbers in Tennessee came with a unique milestone for a program that serves rural high schools.¶
All 40 schools participating in the Ayers Scholars Program were named 2025-2026 FAFSA Champions with a combined completion rate of 98.9 percent.¶
The recognition, awarded by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) and the Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation (TSAC), highlights schools that go above and beyond to achieve a 90 percent or higher FAFSA completion rate or increase their completion rate by at least 5 percent year over year.¶
“These results reflect the dedication of our students, the commitment of our staff, and the strength of our partnerships across Tennessee," Ayers Foundation Trust CEO Dr. Burton Williams said in a news release. "To have all 40 of our partner schools earn Champion status in the same year, while achieving a 98.9 percent FAFSA completion rate across the program, is something we've never seen before, and it speaks to what's possible when you invest time and support in rural communities. That 98.9 percent rate isn't just a program record; it's a number that leads Tennessee. Completing the FAFSA is one of the most important steps a student can take to unlock future opportunities, and we are proud to support every student in pursuing their goals."¶
West Tennessee’s Bolivar Central High School was among Ayer’s schools earning the FAFSA Champions designation. The school increased its FAFSA completion rate by more than 40 percent in one year, reaching 100 percent participation.¶
About the Ayers Scholars Program
The Ayers Scholars Program places trained counselors directly in high schools, working one-on-one with students to guide them through college and financial aid planning, using a personalized approach that ensures students, especially in rural and historically underserved communities, are not left behind.¶
The program serves 40 rural high schools in 28 counties and has supported more than 30,000 students in opening postsecondary education and training opportunities.¶
Chairman Janet Ayers highlighted the broader significance of the program’s FAFSA milestone, pointing to the role education plays in building Tennessee’s future workforce and strengthening rural communities.¶
“We are proud of the difference our team is making,” Ayers said. “Our scholars and their high schools are not only first in FAFSA in Tennessee, but also across the entire nation. This is just one more example of how we remain firmly focused on expanding college access, strengthening rural communities, building our future workforce, and helping many more students move confidently toward their dreams.”¶
