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Middle Schoolers Bridge Digital Divide

CSU, Chico’s Educational Talent Search Program hosted its annual 7th/8th Grade Scholars’ Program on Nov. 27. Ninety-eight students from middle schools in Chico, Oroville, Colusa, Hamilton City, Marysville, and Orland attended the program.

Educational Talent Search (ETS) is a federally funded program that prepares and motivates students in grades 6–12 for success in postsecondary education. Students receive help with goal setting, financial aid and scholarship applications, and academic tutoring from college-aged mentors.

The students toured the campus, enjoyed cultural activities, visited the Roth Planetarium, and participated in hands-on engineering activities. In one activity, students learned about principles of physics and engineering as they constructed and raced “sail cars” for prizes.

Students entered the world of technology on the “eBus,” a 40-foot, fully equipped mobile computer laboratory with 16 workstations. The “eBus,” sponsored by the Community College Foundation, travels throughout the state and brings technology access to underserved communities, free of charge. Aboard the “eBus,” instructors provide training in computer literacy, assist with computerized job search and employment development skills, and support after-school programs.

“It’s always satisfying to bring middle school students to campus,” said Allan Bee, ETS director. “It’s never too soon to start motivating them toward higher education."

Allan Bee, Educational Talent Search