Clifton Middle School’s annual event to help families see connection between school and careers

Students of all ages from all HISD schools are invited to attend Clifton Middle School’s annual College and Career Night on Tuesday, March 19, from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. This is the seventh year for the event, which will feature representatives from 18 colleges, and all 16 Texas career clusters.

“Research tells us that the sooner a student makes the decision to attend college, the better prepared they will be,” said Clifton Counselor Belva Parrish. “Middle school and even elementary school is where we need start educating students about the different career options that are available to them and the courses they need to take to pursue those careers.”

As Clifton’s counselor, Parrish educates students and their parents about the importance of taking Algebra and Spanish while in middle school so they can earn high school credit and free up room to take more Advanced Placement courses. Many parents aren’t aware that their children can and should take these courses while in middle school.

Parrish hopes this year’s event will help students see the connection between school and their future work as adult citizens and open their mind to different career paths. “Over the years, we have found that parents who attend the event also begin to think about exploring new career options,” said Parrish.

In addition to representatives from colleges and careers, the event will feature a variety of entertainment including the University of Houston’s Brass Quintet, the Waltrip High School Jazz Band and the Reagan High School Mariachi Band.

Various door prizes will also be given away starting at 8 p.m.Clifton Middle School is located at 6001 Golden Forest Drive, 77092.