John Glenn High hosting college expo Wednesday
NORWALK -- Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District will hold its fourth annual College Expo at 5:15 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 21 at John Glenn High School – part of an expanding stable of District programs aimed at boosting college- and career-readiness for students.
Students and families will have the opportunity to meet with more than 50 college and university representatives, attend workshops and learn about career pathways.
NLMUSD Board President Jesse Urquidi will kick off the event with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, symbolically opening the door to an exciting future for all students.
“Our College Expo is all about letting students imagine and prepare for their post-high school futures,” Urquidi said. “The event nicely complements our growing list of programs designed to support students as they prepare to take the next step in their lives after high school.”
The District’s 2015-16 General Fund budget earmarked funding for:
• Expanded Advanced Placement course options
• An additional college counselor at each high school
• College/career centers at each of the high schools
• College Nights
• Free College Board PSAT and SAT preparation courses and exams administered during the school day
• AP instructional training for teachers and AP materials for students
In addition, Project Lead the Way – a science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) program that connects curriculum to real-world careers and college undergraduate programs is being expanded to include to middle schools; a pilot program is being launched for elementary schools. The program has seen a high level of participation by the District’s high school students.
The Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) college preparatory program – already offered in high school and middle school – is being piloted in three elementary schools.
“We are building a college-going culture in our District,” said Superintendent Dr. Hasmik Danielian. “Our Board, District leadership and staff are committed to the goal that all students leave NLMUSD prepared to go to college or pursue a career passion that was sparked in high school.”
The College Expo will offer a variety of workshops to help students with college applications, including how to write an appealing essay, financial aid and scholarship opportunities, eligibility requirements for college athletic programs, and tips for high school success.
Irene Rifilato, a La Mirada High college and career counselor, is the lead organizer for this year’s College Expo.
“Many of our students will be the first in their families to attend college, and all of these programs are vitally important to helping make that dream a reality,” Rifilato said.
For more information, visit www.nlmusd.org.