DeSoto ISD to Host Districtwide College & Career Fair: “Constructing Our Future—Eagles Rising Through College, Career, and Beyond”t

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.