Algoma Elementary students tour college campus | Kewaunee County Star-News

ALGOMA – On March 6, Algoma Elementary School’s fifth-grade class attended a Phuture Phoenix Campus Visit Day at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay. Along with several other northeast Wisconsin schools, they were warmly welcomed in the Weidner Center by the band, cheer squad and Phlash the mascot.

During the Phuture Phoenix event, the fifth-graders toured UW-Green Bay’s beautiful campus. Some of the stops on the tour included the library, University Union and the Kress Center. First and second year UW-Green Bay students who are considering teaching served as the tour guides. The fifth-graders were able to talk and connect with these students about their college experience, learn why they chose to attend college and what their career aspirations are. The children also participated in fun hands on-activities the college students planned throughout the visit which had them envisioning their futures.

The Phuture Phoenix has been inviting Title I schools from northeast Wisconsin to bring their fifth-graders to visit UW-Green Bay for over 20 years. High school graduation rates in northeast Wisconsin have lagged behind the state average, with greater disparities for underrepresented and disadvantaged students. This program hopes to ignite a passion for education and motivate students to complete high school and see college as achievable.

It might seem early in their academic careers to take fifth graders on a college campus tour. However, research shows that long-term attitudes toward higher education and life-long learning begin to take shape as early as fifth grade.

Teaching fifth-graders about post-secondary options leads to early awareness, helping students understand that there are many options beyond high school. It also encourages goal setting, motivating students to work harder in school if they see the bigger picture of how their efforts can impact their future choices.

It helps students continue to build a growth mindset, introducing the idea that there are diverse paths for success which can help students understand learning doesn’t stop after high school. Whether they decide to pursue higher education or jump into the workforce, continuous growth and learning will be key to long-term success. Overall, the program aims to help students see they have choices and are able to actively shape their futures with the right planning and effort.