Idaho's First College Access Summit Kicks Off Next Week

The Idaho State Department of Education and Idaho State Board of Education will kick off the first annual Idaho College Access Summit next week to help improve the number of Idaho students who go on and complete post-secondary education.

On July 7-8, 2010 at Boise State University, participants in the Idaho College Access Summit will focus on professional development, networking, best practices, and how Idahoans can work together toward common goals to better serve our students. Educators, policy makers, and members of the local business and non-profit communities are encouraged to attend.

“We know more and more jobs now and in the future will require some form of post-secondary education, whether it is professional-technical or a four-year college degree. We must ensure Idaho students are prepared to meet these challenges,” Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna said. “The College Access Summit is a great way to bring all Idahoans together to discuss ways in which we can work together to improve students’ success after high school.”

“Collaboration between everyone involved is key,” said Dr. Mike Rush, Executive Director of the Idaho State Board of Education. “This is an incredible opportunity for everyone in the education community to come together for the betterment of our students and our state.”

At the Summit, educators can earn in-service credit while helping to shape the futures of students. Policy makers can collaborate to ensure Idaho has the most solid approach to education in Idaho. Members of the business and non-profit communities can find ways to further strengthen our local economy through the betterment of our future workforce.

Participants will also have the unique opportunity to hear the student’s perspective by interacting with 200 Idaho students in Boise for the GEAR UP Youth Summit. At the Youth Summit, these students get the chance to visit a college campus for four days and experience postsecondary education firsthand.

Registration for the Idaho College Access Summit is free, thanks to grant funding through the GEAR UP Idaho and the Idaho College Access Challenge Grant programs.

Nearly 150 people have already signed up to attend this free event, but there is still time to register. 

~ Melissa M.