Department of Higher Education

More than 140 Missouri high schools set to participate

High schools across Missouri will celebrate their seniors’ plans for higher education or military service during Decision Day, a program sponsored by the Missouri Department of Higher Education.

Decision Day events are held nationwide on or near May 1 – the date by which most high school seniors are asked to notify a college of their plans to enroll.

More than 140 Missouri high schools are participating in Decision Day this year. Activities will vary at each school but may include assemblies, guest speakers, and social media events.

In addition to celebrating future plans, Decision Day events provide assistance to seniors who are still considering higher education but have not applied to college or enrolled in classes. For younger students, Decision Day emphasizes the importance of planning for higher education.

“We are excited to celebrate with seniors across the state as they finalize their future plans. Recognizing these decisions helps to generate excitement and encourage students of all ages to think about how higher education can help them achieve their goals,” said Zora Mulligan, commissioner of higher education.

Decision Day was inspired by the NCAA’s National Signing Day when student athletes sign a letter of intent to play college sports. Missouri launched Decision Day in 2016, and the program continues to grow each year.

Decision Day is one of three Journey to College programs sponsored by the department to help Missouri students plan and pay for college.

About the Missouri Department of Higher Education: The department seeks to build Missouri’s future by degrees and coordinate higher education policy that fosters a quality postsecondary system. More information about MDHE can be found at https://dhe.mo.gov or find us on Facebook and Twitter @MoHigherEd.