While parents may not be able to imagine little elementary students heading off to college or starting a career, Frenship teachers are already working to prepare them for a bright future.
At Legacy Elementary, the motto for College and Career Week is “it’s never too early to start dreaming and planning for your future.”
The elementary campuses across the district organize activities, guest speakers, and dress up days to bring awareness of colleges/universities and exploration of careers to the students.
Throughout the week, over 15 guests visited Oak Ridge Elementary to speak to the students about their careers and college experience. Guests included - a KCBD news director and anchor, engineer, nurse, restaurant manager, LCU cheerleaders, LCU baseball, Texas Tech University Masked Rider & Centennial Champion, and the Lubbock Symphony Orchestra-Quintet.
While meeting visitors makes for an exciting day, the students are also able to develop a sense of motivation and learn to be inquisitive.
“As students discover their interests and strengths in elementary,” said Laura Hayward, Oak Ridge School Counselor. “It’s important for them to learn about goal settings and opportunities for the future. Learning about different paths for the future is exciting and informative.”
Hearing guests speak about career choices, college choices, potential future plans and qualifications for jobs has a huge impact on elementary students.
The teachers extended the learning in the classroom through discussions about their own college and career backgrounds and doing extensions activities in the classroom. Additionally, families were encouraged to participate at-home with conversations focused on college & career goals and dreams.
“We hope this exposure and conversations encourage students and their families to start planning early,” stated Valerie Llanas, Legacy Elementary School Counselor. “To encourage big dreams and making the connection between working hard in school and future success in life.”
College and Career Week might have come to an end, but learning never stops. Throughout the year, students will be exposed to numerous career pathways. Each student is encouraged to continue searching for their passion, in and out of school.