The decisions that students make as early as eighth grade can have a big effect on their college and career preparation and success later in life. Although students might not be thinking about college when they are in elementary school, it is important that teachers, parents, counselors, and administrators all work together to help them develop college and career awareness and begin planning for their futures while in elementary school.

The phases of planning can be described as follows:

• Elementary School: College and Career Awareness
• Middle School/Junior High: College and Career Investigation
• High School: College and Career Concentration
• Post-Secondary Education: Career Specialization