Benton Middle School opened a college and career center that will guide students in making decisions regarding their future, during an Aug. 24 ribbon-cutting ceremony at back to school night.

“It’s never too early for our students to start planning and thinking about colleges and careers,” Benton Principal Michael Gotto said. “This will give them a jumpstart to explore where their passions can take them.”

Benton’s college and career center will be open during break and lunch. The center features a tech area where students can take assessments that will match them with potential careers and universities. Resources for scholarships are available and an on-site counselor will help answer any questions. Benton plans to have professionals speak about their industries and provide an inside look into different careers for students.

“I am excited that our middle school students can get an early glimpse into their futures,” Board of Education President Karen Morrison said. “Students will be able to discover what careers will best suit their passions and strengths, and what they need to do to reach their goals.”

Benton is the third Norwalk-La Mirada Unified middle school to open a college and career center, following the opening of centers at Hutchinson and Corvallis middle schools in 2015-16.

Superintendent Dr. Hasmik Danileian launched a program to open centers at every campus after a Corvallis Associated Student Body student asked why her school didn’t have one.

“Our students recognized the importance of having this valuable resource and voiced their needs to the District,” Danielian said. “This center will give our students a boost in preparing for colleges and careers.”

Los Coyotes, Los Alisos and Waite middle schools are next to open a college and career center.

PHOTOS:

090516_NLMUSD_BENTONCCC1: Norwalk-La Mirada Unified board members and administrators join Benton Middle School teachers, staff and students during a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Aug. 24 for their brand new college and career center.

090516_NLMUSD_BENTONCCC2: A Benton Middle School parent discusses different college options with his daughter at the school’s new college and career center.

090516_NLMUSD_BENTONCCC3: Benton Middle School students explore the resources available at the school’s new college and career center. Students can research different colleges, careers and scholarships to help guide their future decisions.