Jefferson Middle School fifth graders are looking forward to their visit to Cummins Engine this school year. Submitted photo

Jamestown Public Schools is trying something new with their fourth and fifth grade students this year: fourth graders will visit SUNY Fredonia to experience college firsthand and fifth graders will tour Cummins Engine to learn about the working world and local job opportunities. The idea is that there’s nothing like having conversations with SUNY Fredonia undergraduates to get kids excited about the prospect of college. And having the opportunity to see a world-class manufacturing facility like Cummins Engine, with high-paying and exciting jobs, will only open up the possibilities in our students’ minds.

“We don’t want to wait until high school, or even later in middle school, to start introducing the concepts of college, high expectations, and academic achievement for a positive future,” said Tina Sandstrom, JPS Chief Director of Schools. “By visiting SUNY Fredonia in elementary school, we are trying to set an expectation that students need to start thinking about life after they leave school — whether they go to college or pursue another path, such as the workforce, military service or a trade school.”

The goal of early outreach is to expose students to the range of possibilities helping them stay focused and engaged in school. Thinking about college or a possible future career can be life changing, especially for students who might be the first in their families to attend college.

“The Promising Pathways Program at Fredonia is very excited to partner with the Jamestown Schools in developing meaningful experiences on campus that communicate the mindset that all Chautauqua County students can prepare for, and successfully pursue, an education beyond high school,” said Rebekah Conti, Assistant Director of Pre-College Outreach at SUNY Fredonia. “We understand that exposing a student to college at an early age, even as early as fourth grade; can leave a lasting impression on how they perceive their future. We see this as a great opportunity to build a relationship with and inspire young learners.”

“Our goal by sending fifth graders to Cummins Engine is to give student a diverse look at the many opportunities available in the working world and the skills required for the future jobs. Cummins Engine, with its myriad of jobs from engineering, business and manufacturing will open our students’ minds. We know all of our children can be successful and we want our children to believe that too,” said Sandstrom. “We are very lucky to have these such willing partners, like Cummins Engine and SUNY Fredonia, to collaborate with our district to help our students be successful in life.”

Cummins Engine is excited to partner with Jamestown Public Schools. “Cummins is committed to hiring and developing talented individuals,” said Lori Jafarjian, Cummins Engine Human Resources Manager/Community Involvement Leader. “We believe that is imperative to expose future generations to the careers in manufacturing so they can understand the great opportunities available. Giving our youth education and options for their future is critical to our community’s sustainability and Cummins is committed to doing our part.”