(Photo by Watchara Phomicinda, The Press-Enterprise/SCNG)
In an effort to help prepare Cottonwood Cougars for future college and career success, the counselor, Amanda Niaves, planned a series of College Kickoff activities for students. These activities were designed to help students prepare for future college and career success. On October 1st the school came together at a Friday Flag Ceremony to commence College Kickoff Month. During the celebration, each class announced the name of the college and mascot their class adopted.
Each day in October, students have an opportunity to participate in the Daily College Trivia Challenge for a chance to win college spirit items. Over the course of the month, students experience a variety of college and career awareness lessons, such as how to go to college, Pathways to College, which college to consider, resume writing, mock interviews, college-themed scavenger hunts, and college research projects. Through these opportunities, students discover that every day they come to school they are putting one more brick in the foundation of their future as they begin gaining skills as early as TK that will help them to be successful in college and the careers they choose.
During the week of October 11, Cottonwood joined other schools across the district to participate in College Kickoff Spirit Week that focused on different elements of college life such as wearing school spirit shirts, celebrating favorite college sports teams, Dress for Success Day, and College Gear Day. Principal Albert Trudel, who owns over 200 ties, even brought in some of his for the students to wear during their mock interviews!
All in all, College Kickoff Month has been an exciting month. It has prompted staff and students to discuss their personal post-secondary journeys. With the support of HUSD’s community and staff, there will be no limit to what Hemet Unified students can achieve in the future.