@DancingwithStars This has been said before, but I’ll say it again for emphasis. The main thing right now that is currently holding you back is your test score. It’s by no means a bad score but working on it is probably the single best way to enhance your desirability as a competitive applicant for scholarships as well as admission.
I strongly recommend that you take a practice ACT test under timed conditions at home and see how you do. The reason I say this is that my daughter did significantly better on the ACT than the SAT. I wish we had figured that out sooner because she put in a fair amount of time on SAT prep and hit a ceiling beyond which she could not go. She tried an ACT because I nagged her and she was really encouraged by the result, did some more practice, and got a great score on the real thing. It may not be the most exciting way to spend your free time but I’m firmly convinced that her test score contributed to the scholarship offers she has received.
It may be that the SAT is “your” test. If that’s the case, there are a fair number of authentic SAT practice tests now in circulation as well as the free interactive tutorials on Khan Academy. If you go the ACT route, I think it is worth paying for their on-line practice program, which is about $40 for a year’s worth of access.
As has said before, make sure you have a few solid safeties/matches on your list and then aim a little higher and see what happens. U Mass Amherst is an excellent safer option, especially if you qualify for the Honors Program. Do run the numbers in advance to determine if the schools that interest you are likely to be affordable for your family.
Best of luck to you!