A blue and red costumed mascot interacting with children who are reaching out their hands while a team of basketball players cheers in the background.

This week, thousands of SPS elementary school students were encouraged to consider possibilities for life after high school with unique experiences facilitated by Career & College Readiness.

On Wednesday, more than 1,200 fourth and fifth grade students from 16 SPS elementary schools were invited by Whitworth University to attend a Men’s Basketball game.

A group of people standing on a basketball court holding a microphone, engaging with an audience, with basketballs visible on a cart nearby.A youth participant on the basketball court with a ball, adjusting clothing as part of an activity, while a large crowd watches from the bleachers.A basketball team huddled together on the court, surrounded by an enthusiastic crowd waving white towels.
At half-time, four Whitworth student athletes shared about college life, and SPS students were invited to participate in a few games on the court during timeouts. They had a blast waving rally towels and cheering for the Pirates, and were complimented on their behavior by regular Whitworth fans and the team.

Several schools also used the opportunity to practice riding STA buses, which provides free rides for youth. Great work, Logan, Finch, Longfellow, Arlington, and Regal!

Also on Wednesday, Garfield Elementary School welcomed Gonzaga University Women’s Basketball players and coaches, who shared about being student athletes and the importance of gratitude. Coach Lisa Fortier shared that showing gratitude and being thankful increases your positive emotions and improves your health, helping you feel joy and self-pride.

After a student Q&A, 55 students received Gonzaga Bulldog sweatshirts, personally donated by Coaches Lisa and Craig Fortier, as part of The Hoodie Project, which aims to inspire students to consider pursuing higher education as they explore opportunities that will help them meet their future goals.

We’re grateful that our students are able to engage with college students and staff as they explore opportunities that will help them meet their future goals.

More than 50 Garfield Elementary School students wearing Gonzaga Bulldogs sweatshirts smile and pose for a photo with Gonzaga Women’s Basketball players and coaches.Garfield Elementary School students raise their hands to ask questions of Gonzaga Women’s Basketball players and coaches.Gonzaga Women’s Basketball Coach Lisa Fortier holds a microphone as she speaks to Garfield Elementary School students.