The Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development (MDHEWD) has expanded its Journey to College outreach initiative to include elementary and middle schools.
Twenty-two schools throughout the state will participate in the Spring 2020 pilot program, incorporating activities to help students from kindergarten through eighth grade to start thinking about their future careers. MDHEWD launched the pilot program last week with instructional webinars for the pilot schools.
“We want to help students understand all of their options for after high school,” said Zora Mulligan, commissioner of higher education. “Most jobs today require some form of training or education beyond high school – this pilot project will help younger students think about their possibilities, and the education required to achieve their career goals.”
The Journey to College initiative seeks to encourage students to pursue a certificate or degree, through outreach programs – Apply Missouri, FAFSA Frenzy, and Decision Day, publications, social media, presentations, training, and a student-based website, journeytocollege.mo.gov.
The K-8 spinoff program offers younger students the opportunity to create their first résumés, interview professionals, and research college and career options.
Free materials and resources to help support college- and career-oriented activities are available on the department website.
About the Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development: The department works to empower Missourians with the skills and education needed for success. More information about MDHEWD can be found at https://dhewd.mo.gov or on Facebook and Twitter @MoDHEWD.