Kids2College program at Mat-Su College today

PALMER — Building on the success of the “I’m Going To College” program, the Alaska Commission on Postsecondary Education and UA College Savings Plan partnered to take Kids2College across Alaska, including an event at Mat-Su College in Palmer April 26

Last year, nearly 2,200 fifth- and sixth-grade students in 13 communities visited college campuses in their communities to experience a day in the life of a college student, with fun, hands-on classes and age-appropriate lessons.

Lessons, including building a battery-operated robot, digging up archeological artifacts or learning how to use a fire hose, are intended to engage and stimulate career exploration and college preparation concepts in students’ young minds.

To prepare for their campus visit, students research what is involved with pursuing different careers and present the information to their classmates. Along the way, they learn about various academic options and the steps they can take today to prepare for college. Kids2College teaches students about local high school graduation and test requirements, college admissions and how to qualify for financial aid opportunities like the Alaska Performance Scholarship.

Now in 28 states, Kids2College encourages students to aspire to education and training beyond high school — whether it’s an apprenticeship, a one-year technical program or a seven-year professional degree sequence — by learning that postsecondary training is important and attainable.

For more information, contact Amy Seamans 745-9799 or aseamans@matsu.alaska.edu.