Students in the new class of the College Prep Academy were jacketed last night surrounded by family and friends, officially initiating them into the prestigious program.
Some may think that middle school is too early to begin thinking about college, but the leaders of the Topeka Public Schools College Prep Academy (CPA) know that early preparation for post-secondary education gives students a better chance at success after graduating high school. The program's purpose is to give students the tools they need to succeed in college and careers through advanced coursework and real-world learning.
Students are able to enroll in CPA beginning in middle school. One of the early events they participate in is the jacketing ceremony. The 2019 class of College Prep Academy gathered at TCALC on Tuesday, September 17, to participate in this special event. Modeled after medical school's coating ceremony, new CPA students are ceremoniously given their blazers by a guardian.
When the ceremony began, students entered the auditorium in pairs of two and sat together with the other students from their home schools. Students then recited a pledge stating their commitment to the College Prep Academy program. Dr. Tiffany Anderson addressed the guests by explaining the importance of preparing for college and outlined the exciting challenges and opportunities that students will encounter while in the program.
Next, students from each school were invited to stand at the front of the auditorium with their families to receive their blazer. Before helping their student put on their jackets, guardians signed a pledge that stated they would support their student's pursuit of education and would commit to ensuring their student will finish the program. Finally, they helped their student into their jackets; a proud moment symbolizing the start of a new academic journey.
"(The jacketing ceremony) meant that I was officially a part of College Prep, and that I can stick with it. I felt really special. It felt good," said Zahra Lewis, a 7th grader at Jardine Middle School.
Although these students won't be entering college for nearly 5 more years, they are already on the path to success. Through the program, not only will they participate in advanced coursework, they will visit college campuses, engage with TPS graduates who are currently in college, as well as learn valuable skills such as public speaking and business etiquette. By the time these students graduate high school, they will earn the equivalent of an associates degree.
When asked what the jacketing ceremony meant to him, Raphael Obenieta, an 8th grader at Landon Middle School said, "It was really heartwarming to me to know that my education is secure and that I have a whole journey ahead of me. It let me know that my education still has a long way to go, but I'm going to enjoy it."
The jacketing ceremony was an important moment for CPA students to share their academic goals with their families and friends. From here they will be challenged and inspired to continue their education in whatever capacity they choose.
Congratulations to the new class of College Prep Academy!
Want to learn more about College Prep Academy and the Topeka Center for Advanced Learning and Careers? Visit https://www.topekapublicschools.net/domain/1178 or call 785-295-3000.