College Tour

Submitted by Lisa Scherr
​Guidance Counselor,  Church Lane Elementary School

In effort, to prepare students for college and the workforce, Church Lane Elementary students participated in their first Church Lane Elementary College Tour.  Fourth and Fifth grade teachers and their school counselor collaborated in effort to promote college readiness and a general understanding of the college experience.  Through classroom guidance, students were introduced to and discussed the need for college and vocational training.  With support from their classroom teachers, students in 8 classrooms worked hard and obtained information about a specific Maryland College. Each class created a display highlighting information about their specific Maryland College.  Using the student created displays, students took a “College Tour”.  Students read for information and completed a “scavenger hunt” to gain knowledge about college programs, tuition and extracurricular activities.  All students upon tour completion received badges that said, “I am on the road to success”.  Keeping with that theme, students then reflected and wrote on posters about what would STOP them on their road to success and what help them GO in the right direction.  Prior to the College Tour, students had the opportunity to meet with 16 college students.  In a panel discussion, 4th and 5th graders were able to ask questions to current college students and gain understanding about education and career options in their future.  Students enjoyed the hands on and engaging opportunity to experience college using technology and discussion.