Preparing students for college doesn’t begin in high school. Students should consider their interests and options well before they get there. In Lauderdale County, we are taking steps in middle schools to have students consider all of their options early enough to make informed decisions about their future.
In November, Ripley Middle School earned the Path to College Designation by hosting events surrounding College Application and Exploration Week and FAFSA Frenzy during the 2019-20 school year. High Schools normally take part in these events, however, Ripley Middle School joined in by holding dress up days for students to represent their favorite college and also delivered daily announcements about post-secondary options, why early planning is so important, information about completing the FAFSA, along with facts about TN Promise money for college.
Ripley Middle School believes it is never too early to start looking at benefits of post-secondary options whether it be community college, career technical certification, a four-year university, or the military. The more students and families know and the earlier they learn about post-secondary options, the better the chances are that students will plan and be successful on their path to college.
Congratulations to Ripley Middle School for being designated a Path to College school.