What if every student—regardless of background—had a clear path to college, career, or training after high school? In 10 Lessons for Postsecondary Access: Building Systems of Hope for Underrepresented Youth , veteran school counselor Priscilla A. Grijalva shares the systems, strategies, and leadership lessons she developed over more than two decades in Title I schools. Drawing from her experiences as a first-generation college student and nationally recognized school counseling leader, Grijalva demonstrates how intentional systems—paired with hope—can transform school cultures and expand postsecondary access for all students. This practical guide provides both inspiration and actionable strategies for educators committed to equity and student success. Inside this book, you will learn how to: • Build schoolwide systems that expand postsecondary opportunities • Use data to identify and close equity gaps • Demystify financial aid and scholarship pathways • Implement MTSS frameworks to support college and career readiness • Create partnerships with colleges, military recruiters, and community organizations • Celebrate student success in ways that foster belonging and hope Through real-world stories, replicable strategies, and leadership insights, this book offers a clear roadmap for school counselors, counselor educators, and graduate students who are committed to ensuring every student—especially those historically underserved—has access to meaningful postsecondary pathways. A Message of Hope At its core, 10 Lessons for Postsecondary Access reminds educators that when hope is paired with intentional systems, students thrive—and entire communities can change. "Developing a collection of resources for working with diverse populations is a vital part of any school counselor's comprehensive program. Ms. Grijalva is eager to share this compilation of strategies from her extensive experience and their impact on the students in her settings. Lots of ideas to expand your work with students!" -Julie Hill, 2022 Indiana School Counselor of the Year "Priscilla offers a welcome combination of inspiration and practical guidance, giving school counselors both the motivation and tools to make a meaningful difference in students' lives. She is a tireless mover, shaker, leader, and advocate for students and the profession. In this book, Priscilla shares the hard-earned wisdom she has gained along the way. It is a true gift to the field—generously offering her insights, effective strategies, and a clear vision for what is possible. Through powerful stories and actionable ideas, Priscilla focuses on building belief, expanding access, and creating systems that support student success, especially for those who have been historically underserved. She moves beyond ideas and shows how to turn them into real, lasting impact. An energizing and highly useful read for school counselors who want to do their work with greater purpose and effectiveness." -Russell A. Sabella, Ph.D. Professor, Florida Gulf Coast University "Priscilla Grijalva delivers a compelling reflection on resilience, purpose, and the power of servant leadership. She blends personal experiences and professional insights while offering thoughtful approaches that have been shaped by her decades long work with diverse student communities. An unwavering advocate, Priscilla shares lessons learned that inspired readers to center equity, expand opportunity, and strengthen the systems that support positive outcomes for each and every student. Both practical and uplifting, this book is a meaningful guide for school counselors committed to making a meaningful and lasting difference in both the lives of their students and the systems they work in." -Jennifer Kirk, Ed.D., 2014 Pennsylvania High School Counselor of the Year Priscilla Grijalva holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from California Baptist University. She earned her Pupil Personnel Services Credential in School Counseling and an Administrative Credential from the University of Redlands. She is a school counselor with over two decades of experience at both the middle and high school levels. In addition to her counseling work, she has served as an adjunct university instructor, a University of California application reader, host of the Reach Higher Riverside podcast, and a member of the Board of Directors for the American School Counselor Association. Priscilla has led schools to national distinction, guiding both a middle school and a high school to the Recognized ASCA Model Program Award. She also helped one of her former districts earn five national recognitions from Former First Lady Michelle Obama for Reach Higher and voter registration initiatives. A sought-after speaker, Priscilla has presented at state and national conferences across the country. She has appeared as a main-stage speaker at the National Association for College Admission Counseling