November 5, 1998

Media Contact: José A. Alvarez (619) 594-2585

 

San Diego State Celebrates 10-Year Partnership with National City Middle School

On Saturday, November 7, 1998, students, faculty and staff from the College of Professional Studies and Fine Arts (PSFA) at San Diego State University and students and teachers from National City Middle School (NCMS) will be selling "gently used" furniture, clothing, books and other items during their Fall flea market.

The 9:00 a.m. sale, which will take place on the NCMS campus, 1701 D Avenue, is one of the many events marking the tenth anniversary of a partnership between the college and the middle school.

Through an active program of mentoring, exchange visits, tours of campus facilities, career fairs and student performances, PSFA and National City Middle School have forged a partnership that is beneficial to students from both institutions.

The proceeds from the sale, for example, are used to raise funds for two scholarships awarded to eighth-grade graduates each semester for use four years later when they enroll at SDSU.

"Our college is involved in several programs that encourage culturally diverse students to continue their education. The National City program helps students understand they have options they might not have considered," said Carole Robasciotti, PSFA’s assistant dean for student affairs. She added that the partnership’s next event will take place Friday, November 13. On that day, 35 students from National City Middle School will visit the SDSU campus and attend a 10 a.m. lecture on Intercultural Communication in room 109 of the Family Studies Building.

The partnership’s goals are to demystify the college experience, provide positive role models to students, and promote exposure to visual and performing arts.

"It’s invaluable for our kids," said NCMS principal Cheryl Dorris. "Besides the exposure to a college environment, middle school kids are exceptionally flattered that University students take such a strong interest in them."

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