Can you guess what these students are viewing? Our students are viewing a picture of Michelle Obama in the Princeton University Yearbook.

Yes, you guessed right. Our own Mr. Depeine was a classmate of Michele Obama! Our middle schoolers were excited to see photos of our former first lady as well as view her thesis at DLEACS' first college tour of Princeton University.  

For the trip to his alma mater, Mr. Depeine coordinated a reception facilitated by the African American Studies Center at Princeton. The welcoming aspect was especially important because, given the prominent history of the university, our students who are primarily minority could be made to feel comfortable while visiting. Also, the self-identification allowed the children to see themselves possibly as future Princeton Tigers.

The college and career readiness approach at DLEACS prompts the middle school faculty and guidance department to partners so that every middle-school student has the opportunity to visit a college campus to promote the high school, college, and life road to success. 

Through age-appropriate and customized visits, DLEACS reinforces the message that all students CAN GO to college, and that planning for college starts NOW.

Much gratitude goes to Mr. Depeine for his sharing his personal history with us and for serving as an essential role model for our students.  

Many thanks go to Principal Brewer, the entire middle school and our guidance department for making these experiences possible.

See the trip photos here.