Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District (FSUSD) continues to prioritize college and career readiness, ensuring that students begin exploring their future pathways early in their academic journey. Recent events at B. Gale Wilson and Grange Middle School exemplify the district’s commitment to inspiring students and connecting classroom learning with real-world opportunities.
At B. Gale Wilson Middle School, 50 students involved in the National Junior Honor Society, ASB Leadership, and the Battle of the Books team, embarked on a college field trip to Sonoma State University on April 28th. This enriching experience was a reward for academic and community engagement, as well as an intentional effort to expose students to higher education. Students toured the campus, explored a freshman dorm room, and engaged with ongoing community events, offering them a glimpse into college life.
“When our middle school students step onto a college campus, something shifts. They begin to see college not as a distant idea, but as a real, reachable goal,” said Principal Mirel Rivera. “These field trips spark curiosity, confidence, and a vision of the future that encourages them to pursue higher education with purpose and possibility.”
Parents echoed the value of this experience. One chaperone, Desiree Smithey, shared, “Seeing my son and other BGW students explore the campus at Sonoma State University reminded me how powerful experiences outside the classroom can be. It sparked his curiosity and gave him a glimpse of what’s possible for his future.”
Meanwhile, just two days later, Grange Middle School hosted its Annual Career Fair on April 30th, an event organized by the school’s counseling team. Open to all students, the fair brought together professionals from a variety of industries including healthcare, engineering, the military, fitness, animal care, and entrepreneurship. Participants such as a veterinarian, mining engineer, nurse, and members of the Air Force and Navy shared real-world insight and answered student questions, helping students link their interests to future career paths.
“We truly value the support of our community partners,” said event organizers. “These professionals helped make career possibilities real and accessible for our students.”
These events represent just a snapshot of FSUSD’s broader mission to equip students with the tools, exposure, and inspiration they need to succeed in their futures. By introducing college and career opportunities early on at the middle school level, FSUSD is building a future-focused culture where students are encouraged to dream big—and take steps toward achieving those dreams!