Beyond the Cave . . .

In its first school year, no one can deny that Beyond the Cave was noticed!  A partnership between MEF and School City, BtC’s aim was to get kids and their parents thinking about what they could do after graduating from Mishawaka High School.  Those thoughts—and conversations—happened in every hallway in every one of our schools!

We started with opening the Beyond the Cave Center.  Located in the Guidance Office of Mishawaka High School, trained volunteers sat ready to help School City students of any age explore career options, plan for college and expect success.  We assisted over 60 students and 30 parents in visits at the Center—with many coming back more than once. 
Next, we made sure that students of all ages knew that it was never too early to think about their future and that they were surrounded by people willing to talk to them about it.  We hung collegiate pennants outside every classroom –370 system-wide—representing each educator’s alma mater.  Each pennant is accompanied by an open invitation to talk with that educator about his or her school.  Students can explore over 70 colleges just by ducking into one of our classrooms.
In second semester, we celebrated our seniors’ success!  Each time a Mishawaka High School Senior was admitted into a school—whether four-year university, two-year college, trade school or military branch—we celebrated it publicly!  Two hundred forty-nine pennants were hung in the hallway at MHS, one for every educational opportunity that said ‘yes!  We want you!’  This prominent display attracted the attention of students, parents, families, and the media.  There was rarely a time when one could be in that hallway and not see people taking pictures, talking with pride about ‘their’ display, or talking about their own future plans.

Beyond the Cave’s first year was about getting started.  It was about being seen and making introductions.  With those goals—we succeeded wildly.  Now, in our second year, we are getting down to business.  We are recruiting more volunteers to see more students and families.  From introducing students to folks practicing a variety of careers to helping with scholarship applications, Beyond the Cave is committed to the futures of School City students.

Beyond the Cave . . .
Please contact:

Jane Zimmerman Wright '68,
Mishawaka Education Foundation Executive Director
574-532-1881
Foundation@mishawaka.k12.in.us