ENCORE Engages Students at Local Elementary
Mercedes, TX - January 10, 2009

MERCEDES - Ruben Hinojosa Elementary School hosted its first annual Career and College Readiness Fair last week. Faculty and staff worked together to create awareness about the importance of getting a higher education.

"The most important aspect of conducting a career fair is exposure to the different types of careers that they can choose from and making a connection with school," said Guadalupe Gutierrez Jr., a counselor and strong advocate for student success."The overall reaction of the students would be that they were excited about the different types of careers that are out there and how unique each career can be."

The elementary school, which serves first through fourth grade students, prides itself on their student engagement programs.

"We were very excited to hear that our campus would be hosting such an event for the students," said Azalia Lomas-Garcia, a second grade teacher."Motivating students to succeed at the elementary level is one thing, but planting the college and career seed in these students will have a tremendous impact on their lives and the community."

In addition, Giovanni Ferrigno, Special Projects coordinator at Texas Valley Communities Foundation - ENCORE initiative, could not agree more.

"We have been given this great opportunity to inspire these students prepare for what is ahead of them," Ferrigno said. "It is a pleasure to be able to provide them with the information and motivation they need to succeed in life."

Even though this is the first time an event of such magnitude is carried by the school, teachers' efforts to stimulate students and parents continue.

Gutierrez said that his future plans for the school include a College Night in which local colleges and universities would provide students and parents of all ages an opportunity to gain additional information on diverse topics such as college orientation and financial aid.

ENCORE was one of twenty organizations that participated in this community supported event. It served as a catalyst for college going motivation as they distributed materials to the students, informing them that college is available for all of them.

"It was fun to learn about colleges and the different jobs that we can have when we grow up", exclaimed Noah Garcia, second grade student. "I can't wait to go to college!"