College and Career Fair at High Road School of Santa Rosa

College and Career Fair Supports Future Planning

The High Road School of Santa Rosa recently hosted its annual college and career fair. This event is designed to help juniors and seniors explore options for life after graduation. This year’s event brought together postsecondary partners who offered students a clear look at the training programs, certifications, and academic pathways available to them.

Connecting Students With Colleges, Training, and Career Partners

Representatives from CareerSource EscaRosa, Express Training Services of Destin, Locklin Technical College, Fortis Institute, Pensacola State College, and the Santa Rosa County School District’s Career and Technical Education Department met with students during the fair.

Each partner provided program details and practical insight into what entry into college or workforce preparation truly entails. Representatives from Vocational Rehabilitation also attended, offering individualized guidance on transition services, accommodations, and employment supports for students who may need them.

Helping Students Explore Career Readiness Options

As students visited each partner’s table, they asked questions about career readiness, financial aid, program prerequisites, and industry expectations. Many walked away with new information that clarified their goals and helped them understand the steps needed to pursue them.

Leadership Perspective on the College and Career Fair

Carl Blackmon, program director at High Road School of Santa Rosa, said the fair plays a key role in preparing students for the future.

“Events like this give our students direct access to people who can help guide them toward the right postsecondary path,” Blackmon said. “It encourages them to think about what comes next and shows them that there are meaningful options within reach.”

The Lasting Impact of a College and Career Fair

The impact of the fair is felt across the school and district. Students gain exposure to programs they may not have previously considered. Additionally, partners are able to connect with young people who will soon enter the region’s workforce. For school leadership, the event underscores a commitment to pairing academic instruction with real-world preparation.

“By bringing partners directly to our students, we ensure that their dreams are planned for, supported, and made attainable through informed choices and strong community relationships,” said Blackmon.