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National Signing Day, on Tuesday, April 26 is a part of the White House’s Reach Higher Initiative that was established in May 2014.
The primary goal of the president’s initiative is to “encourage every student in America to take charge of their future by completing their education past high school, whether at a professional training program, a community college, or a four-year college or university,” according to the White House website.
“First lady Michelle Obama’s speech offered practical and thoughtful advice for a successful post- secondary experience,” said Kelly Malczewski, Harrison’s director of guidance. “The students left inspired by the first lady’s guidance including how to self-advocate and how to get involved on campus.”
Harrison High School’s involvement was a direct result of an alumnus reaching back to help others. Former HHS student Josh Thomas reached out to his former high school guidance counselor Carolyn Chieco to tell her about this inspiring event and persuade her to have Harrison High School send a diverse group of students who are committed to securing a post-secondary education.
This year’s event was attended by more than 4,000 New York area high school students and over 500 College Signing Day events were planned across the country by communities, students and organizations committed to helping students pursue higher education.
The New York City event was live-streamed on MTV in conjunction with Viacom’s Get Schooled Initiative.
“We are honored to have been part of the National Signing Day event and hope to continue holding our own signing day events each school year,” Malczewski said. “National Signing Day sends the powerful message to celebrate the diverse post high school plans of all students which aligns directly to our district’s core values and mission.”
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