Governor Tomblin declares statewide “College Application and Exploration Week”

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Governor Earl Ray Tomblin has designated October 20 – 24 as “College Application and Exploration Week” in an effort to help students prepare for college. Schools across the state will participate by hosting a variety of hands-on activities including college application workshops, panel discussions with current college students and college scavenger hunts and trivia contests.

During the week, students of all ages — from kindergarteners to adult learners — will learn about the importance of pursuing higher education and the different types of college options available including certificate programs, two-year degree programs and four-year degree programs. Students who are of college-going age will work one-on-one with counselors, teachers and volunteers to complete admissions applications.

Elementary schools, middle schools, high schools and adult basic education classes are eligible to participate. To register, school staff should visit www.cfwv.com and sign up before September 5. Schools that register by the deadline will receive a free kit containing ideas and resources to help them plan and coordinate college-planning activities. Last year, nearly 150 schools participated and more than 4,200 students applied to college during the one-week event.

 “I encourage our principals, counselors and teachers to support this effort and to register their schools to serve as official College Application and Exploration Week sites” Governor Earl Ray Tomblin said. “To meet the demands of today’s economy, West Virginia needs more college graduates and skilled workers. This event serves as an opportunity for us to encourage and assist our students in making informed choices that will prepare them for success in their careers and throughout their lives.”

Dr. Paul Hill, Chancellor of the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission, stressed the importance of considering college options early.

“One of the most exciting things about this effort is that we’re providing college exploration experiences for our elementary and middle school students,” Dr. Hill said. “Research and experience show that early exposure to college planning can inspire students and instill in them a sense of purpose and pride. Promoting lifelong learning and strengthening the state’s college-going culture are critical components to ensuring West Virginia’s future success. Individuals who learn more, earn more — and they give back to our communities and fuel our economy.”

The College Foundation of West Virginia (CFWV) coordinates the annual “College Application and Exploration Week” event. CFWV is a college- and career-planning initiative led by the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission in partnership with the West Virginia Council for Community and Technical College Education, the West Virginia Department of Education and the West Virginia Department of Education and the Arts.

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Note: A list of schools that are registered for College Application and Exploration Week 2014 can be found at www.cfwvconnect.com/caew_locations.