DeISD to Host College & Career Fair

DeSoto ISD to Host Districtwide College & Career Fair: “Constructing Our Future—Eagles Rising Through College, Career, and Beyond”t
Posted on 09/02/2025
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DeSoto Independent School District will host its annual College and Career Fair on Thursday, September 11, 2025, from 6 PM – 8 PM at DeSoto High School. With the theme “Constructing Our Future: Eagles Rising Through College, Career, and Beyond,” this year’s event reflects the district’s commitment to preparing students at every grade level for successful postsecondary opportunities.

“College and career readiness starts long before high school. By providing workshops for elementary and middle school students,” said Robin Johnson-Ford, DeSoto ISD Director of Advanced Academics and Gifted & Talented  “we’re ensuring our scholars develop strong academic foundations and big dreams early. The Baylor TIP partnership brings enrichment opportunities that help students discover their talents and set goals for the future.”

The fair will feature hands-on, grade-appropriate workshops designed to spark curiosity and provide resources for students from elementary through high school. Families and community members are encouraged to attend and explore the many pathways available for DeSoto ISD scholars.




Workshop Highlights

Elementary and Middle School Students (Grades 1–8):

  • Baylor TIP Workshop Session featuring:


    • Baylor TIP (Talent Identification Program) is designed to help bright and curious students discover their strengths and explore exciting new learning opportunities. From advanced testing to online classes, summer camps, and fun academic clubs, Baylor TIP gives students the chance to stretch their thinking, try new subjects, and get ready for future college and career success. It’s a program that helps kids dream big while building confidence in their talents.
    • Above Level Testing – Provides students with assessments designed to measure advanced academic abilities and identify gifted potential beyond grade-level expectations.


    • Online Math & Engineering Courses – Offers engaging, accelerated online classes that challenge students to explore higher-level concepts in math, science, and engineering.


    • Summer Residential and Day Courses – Immersive summer programs where students live on college campuses or attend day sessions to experience hands-on learning and enrichment.


    • Online Reading, Writing, & Math Clubs – Virtual clubs that build core academic skills while encouraging creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration with peers.


    • Career & College Advising – Personalized guidance to help students explore future career pathways, understand college options, and set long-term academic goals.


    • Super Saturday GT Courses – Enrichment classes held on weekends that allow gifted and talented students to dive deeper into specialized subjects and creative learning experiences.

The event also focuses on high school scholar prep for postsecondary pathways.

“Our goal is to make sure every student leaves DeSoto ISD prepared for success after graduation,” said Dr. Anita Perry, Executive Director of College, Career, and Military Readiness and Counseling Services, “Whether through scholarships, application support, or exploration of career pathways, this fair empowers our high school students—especially seniors—to take confident next steps in shaping their futures.”

At the event, High School Students (Grades 9–12) will have access to:

  • EIF Advisors College & Career Readiness Workshop covering:


    • College Application Process


    • Scholarship Resources


    • Effective Essay Essentials


    • Career Exploration Tips


  • All DeSoto seniors will receive a FREE Common Black College Application Voucher—providing access to apply to over 50 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
  • Baylor TIP Workshop Session (9–12):


    • Baylor Accelerate Pre-College Program – A unique opportunity for high school students to earn college credit through Baylor University while still in school, helping them get a head start on their college journey.


    • Online Math & Engineering Courses – Interactive online classes that challenge students with higher-level problem-solving and hands-on projects in math, science, and engineering.


    • Summer Residential and Day Courses – Enrichment programs where students can live on a college campus or attend day sessions to explore new subjects, meet peers, and experience college-style learning.


    • Online Reading, Writing, & Math Clubs – Virtual clubs that make learning fun by building key academic skills while connecting with other students who share the same interests.


    • Career & College Advising – Guidance and resources that help students explore career paths, understand college options, and plan their steps toward future goals.


    • Super Saturday GT Courses – Special weekend classes designed for gifted and talented students to dive deeper into creative and challenging subjects outside of their regular schoolwork.


“The College and Career Fair reinforces our district’s vision of academic excellence by creating hands-on, real-world opportunities for students,” said Stephanie McCloud, DeSoto ISD Chief Academic Officer. “It’s not just about preparing for college—it’s about equipping scholars with the tools, knowledge, and resources to thrive in any path they choose.”

Community Involvement

DeSoto ISD invites parents, guardians, and community members to attend and take part in this exciting event. Volunteers are also welcome. To support, please contact Robin Johnson-Ford at [email protected].

Event Details:
 📍 Location: DeSoto High School
 
📅 Date: Thursday, September 11, 2025
 
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

“This event reflects DeSoto ISD’s Triple A Experience—Academics, Arts, and Athletics—by ensuring our scholars are prepared to excel beyond the classroom,” said Dr. Usamah Rodgers, DeSoto ISD Superintendent of Schools. “We are deeply invested in providing families with resources that support student growth, achievement, and long-term success. The College and Career Fair is a powerful step in constructing futures that soar.”

 

Bring your family and friends for an evening of discovery, empowerment, and future planning with DeSoto ISD.

For more information, visit www.desotoisd.org.