October is College and Career Awareness Month, and I am honored to shine a light on the futures of our students. Each child in our classrooms deserves to see a clear path leading to success after high school.
A college degree or career credential opens the door to higher wages and changes lives. Such empowerment begins in classrooms rooted in a steadfast belief that every child can thrive. It strengthens each time we show students what is possible and guide them toward the tools to achieve it.
One of the most important tools for accessing college is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, known as FAFSA. Completing this application unlocks grants, scholarships, and other financial support that make higher education possible. In Springfield, we have seen encouraging progress in FAFSA completion rates across our high schools, but we also know there is more work ahead. Every student who completes the FAFSA gains greater access to the resources that can carry them into college and career success. And beginning July 1, 2026, FAFSA will also be usable for many career and trade school programs, expanding opportunities for students who wish to pursue skilled professions.
This month, schools across Springfield will celebrate College and Career Awareness Month with activities designed to spark conversations about life beyond graduation and support students and families as they plan for what lies ahead, including resources and guidance to ensure more of our young people complete the FAFSA and take that important step toward opportunity.
To our families and partners, I extend my gratitude. Your encouragement, your stories, and your guidance help our young people imagine themselves as college graduates, skilled career professionals, members of the military, and future leaders of Springfield.
I believe in the Springfield Public Schools staff, the finest educators in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. I believe in our students, the brightest minds of the next generation. I believe in Springfield, where belief fuels progress.
And I believe that together, we are building a brighter tomorrow by preparing every student for college, career, and beyond. ■