Federal Way Public Schools (FWPS) continues its commitment to ensuring scholars are college and career ready with its annual Life After High School College and Career Fair from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 26 at Thomas Jefferson High School.

The fair designed for middle and high school scholars and has traditionally drawn hundreds of attendees, will return to an in-person event, allowing scholars to connect with representatives from over 50 post-secondary institutions.

These include two- and four-year colleges and universities, apprenticeships, trade schools, military, and other options to pursue following high school graduation.

Several workshops and panels will also be available to help scholars and families learn more about successfully completing the High School and Beyond Plan, college applications and essays, paying for college with financial aid and scholarships, apprenticeships, and more. In addition, 12th grade students and their parents are invited to complete important financial aid applications in the FAFSA/WASFA open lab where staff will be available to support the application process.

Each opportunity available during the event will help scholars narrow down their plans after high school.

“I look forward to learning more about HBCUs,” said Eddy Kone, a senior at Decatur High School after learning about the panel discussions planned for the night, referencing historically Black colleges and universities.

FWPS Superintendent Dr. Dani Pfeiffer said she is excited to invite students and families back to this event.

“The Life After High School College and Career Fair has been instrumental in helping thousands of scholars determine the next steps after high school. I’m certain this year will also provide scholars and families with the information they need to outline a pathway to post-secondary education,” Pfeiffer said. “Each scholar has the potential to continue their educational journey after high school, and it’s our responsibility as a school district to help them see the possibilities.”