Taking the

Taking the

next step

Miranda Hope is expecting a baby in the spring.

She looks forward to having a child of her own

and no doubt will be a wonderful mother. She’s already had lots of experience.

As director of Rappahannock County High School’s Next Step program, she has counseled and guided a number of graduating seniors who are now happily ensconced in college life.

For many, they are the first in their families to attend college.

For the overwhelmed, Miranda’s door has always been open to walk and talk them through FAFSA forms, financial aid and choosing which college and program might be best suited for them.

For others, they didn’t dream that college could be a reality until Miranda took them under her wing and showed them how to fly.

On Saturday evening, Miranda was honored at a quiet celebration of supporters at the home of John Anderson who serves on the Headwaters board. She beamed as she shared with that group the success stories of the students that have passed through the Next Step program.

Headwaters, the county’s educational foundation, has partnered with the Rappahannock County Public School system as a sponsor of this vital program. Through a generous grant from the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation, Next Step has been funded for the previous two years.

Its future and the future of many students’ dreams lies in its continuing presence in the county.

Headwaters Executive Director Cole Johnson is optimistic that the funds necessary will come in not only for the continuation of Next Step but also to provide scholarships for deserving students.

In the weeks ahead, there will be more information about how you can help make a difference in a young person’s life.

Please join them as they partner with the community in helping open the door for rtudents who never. * bought that opening that door was an option.