Cleveland State Community College was invited to speak to the senior capstone classes at Polk County High School in December about post-graduation options. Students had questions regarding scholarships and academic programs, as well as balancing work and class schedules. Cleveland State representatives from admissions, recruiting and entrepreneurship, as well as the Advanced Technologies Institute were able to discuss some of the many opportunities available for students at Cleveland State.
Dr. Jason Bell and Melissa Fugate with Polk County Schools initially invited Cleveland State. Dr. Bell highlighted the work that Copper Basin High School initiated a few years ago regarding the implementation of a senior capstone course and brought that success to Polk County High School this past fall semester with Ms. Fugate as the instructor. The senior capstone course is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and information needed to be successful upon graduation.
“Our goal is to provide students with skills and strategies that help lead to success after high school and this Capstone Course meets that goal perfectly,” stated Dr. Bell, secondary supervisor for Polk County Schools.
During the capstone course, students worked on filing their FAFSA, applied for the TN Promise scholarship, completed college, job and scholarship applications and created a professional portfolio. Their senior capstone presentation included self and career exploration, financial literacy, college fit, and social/emotional health. Students presented their capstone projects to a panel of community members and school officials.
Holly Melton from Cleveland State served as a panel member. “It was an honor to listen to the goals and aspirations of the students at Polk County High School and see how Cleveland State can fit the needs of our service area seniors,” stated Ms. Melton, CSCC’s coordinator of recruitment.