High School or younger, we need to get more students on the College Track. Not because everyone should go to college but because everyone should have the choice to go to college. That requires college prep classes for every child.

And let’s face it, as we have more global connections, Paterson’s kids must compete. In the 21st century, jobs that didn’t need a high school diploma now do. Factories are computer-driven, as are car repairs. What worked for previous generations will not work for our kids.

So, how do we get more kids on the college track? What if none of us have ever been to college? What are the best ways to navigate? Where can we get help?

Many of us are the first in our family to go to college. We know how hard it is to be the first. But it’s not impossible. We can help.

PEF has trained peer facilitators who will travel to your school, faith-based organization, or community group for a 45 to 90-minute session. Using videos with alumni from John F. Kennedy, your group will talk about the challenges, suggest pathways, and give participants tools to help with the college process.

We have trained student facilitators who can talk to their peers about getting ready to begin the college prep process. Students from Eastside and Kennedy are ready to lead the discussion.

For information about our College Track workshops, email Brenda Ramos, PEF’s Program Director, at brendar@paterson-education.org.

Are you looking for a great web resource? Try knowhow2go.org. It provides information and reminders for both students and adults, encouraging students to be the first in their families to go to college.