On Tuesday, February 24, MJSHS freshmen and sophomores toured area postsecondary institutions. This showcase, organized by the MJSHS Staff, included something for everyone.
The freshmen headed to Salina Area Technical College and Kansas State University-Salina. During their visit, students learned about training to become dental assistants, certified nurses, automobile mechanics, aviation technicians, and airplane pilots. MJSHS students also heard from admission representatives and instructors about financing their education, enrollment requirements, and program curriculum. 
While the freshmen spent their morning in Salina, the sophomores learned that postsecondary training need not take them out of Ottawa County, by beginning their day in Delphos, KS, at AVI (Advanced Industries), where they learned about high-demand and high-wage jobs that require advanced technical training now offered at the former Delphos School Building. MJSHS sophomores also toured Cloud County Community College, learning about the wind turbine technician and certified nurse degree programs. Students also enjoyed lunch on campus.
The day was more than a field trip. Students saw that postsecondary training isn’t one-size-fits-all. Training can include advanced technological tools, training videos, torque wrenches, 3-D Printers, medical and aviation simulators, and million-dollar airplanes. Most importantly, students learned that postsecondary training requires a plan. Their plan. Perhaps the biggest lesson learned was that planning ahead and taking either technical or college classes while in high school substantially reduces the cost of postsecondary education, cutting the price by almost half in most cases.
USD 239 Superintendent Dr. Stevens attended portions of both groups’ tours on Tuesday, participating in the AVI Tour in Delphos, the KSU-Salina Tour, and a tour of Salina Area Technical College. He stated, “Today, our freshmen and sophomores learned that postsecondary training is available right here in Ottawa County and Central Kansas. Students also learned that planning is crucial to saving money in college.” Dr. Stevens added, “If your student is planning to attend postsecondary training in Kansas, I strongly encourage parents and students to check out the following webpage: www.DegreeStats.kansasregents.gov. By taking a few minutes to compare program costs and success rates across Kansas, your student could save $20,000+ when choosing a program or school. Just because a program is expensive does not mean it has a higher success placement rate following graduation. This webpage is an excellent resource for becoming a better consumer when evaluating postsecondary education in Kansas. If you have questions or need help, please call my office at 785-392-2167.”