Socorro Independent School District is hosting the Military Academy Collegiate Forum from 6-8 p.m on Wednesday, February 22 at the SISD District Service Center.
Students, and their parents, can explore numerous U.S. military career opportunities and meet representatives from the United States Coast Guard, Army, Marines, Navy and Air Force. In addition, participants can learn about the Military’s Tuition Assistance Program which provides service members the opportunity to enroll in accredited colleges, universities, and vocational-technical schools.
“We welcome all of our students and parents to come in and learn about post-secondary options,” said Mayra Ortega, SISD’s district counselor. “It’s important that we involve both students and their parents so they can be informed and help their kids make the best decision.”
This year, Team SISD organized five Collegiate Forums to help students and their parents learn more about the college application and financial aid process. The forums also were a way for participants to meet representatives from different colleges and universities.
“I have one year left in high school and then I’m off to the real-world, so this event was great because it guided me,” said Armando Varela, junior at Socorro High School. “The forum helped me learn about colleges and explore my options.”
In addition to receiving information, parents also found the forums to be helpful and a way to receive support from district counselors. 
“Coming to the forum was important to me,” said Olga Varela, mother of the student. “I like that they also invite parents because I wouldn’t know where to start and this will guide us. I know my child will be ready for college when he graduates.”
Team SISD supports students with whichever post-secondary decision they decide to go with, Ortega said.
“All options are possible and attainable, and we support our students in their efforts to make it happen,” she said.
For more information, parents can contact their child’s school counselor or the Department of Guidance and Counseling at 937-0322.
