High school students interested in becoming teachers were invited this summer to participate in South Carolina State University's two-week Bridge Project.

This year's theme was "Where Tomorrow's Teachers Find Their Path Today." The project, funded by the state of South Carolina, is open to students from partnering school districts along the I-95 corridor.

The Bridge Project's vision is to have participating future teachers meet the criteria for program admission while still in high school. During the program, student deficiencies are identified and corrected using resources to improve their skills in reading, writing and mathematics. Students are equipped with the competencies required to enter a teacher education program.

To be selected for the Bridge Project, students must be rising seniors or incoming college freshman who want to pursue education as a career. Students must have a 2.75 GPA and be recommended by an English and mathematics teacher from their high school.

The Bridge Project also helps prepare students to take the Scholastic Aptitude Test and American College Testing required for college admission. Students who score 24 on the ACT and 1100 on the SAT will exempt the Praxis I examination.

Students attending this year's S.C. State's Bridge Project came from CE Murray High School in Greelyville, Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School, Estill High School, Scott Branch High School in Summerton, Allendale-Fairfax High School in Allendale and Lake Marion High School in Santee.

Monica Lambright, a recent O-W graduate, was recipient of the Outstanding Student Award in reading and writing during the two-week program.

"This program has helped gradually improve my learning abilities and made me a better person," she said. "I am blessed to say that I have really enjoyed the experience at S.C. State."

Other experiences for students included the opportunity to explore cultural activities, such as visiting the Charleston Aquarium, Fort Moultrie and Sullivan's Island.

For more information about S.C. State's Bridge Project, call Dr. Gail Joyner Fleming at 803-536-7173.

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