Bilingual college planning for parents of preteens

Parents of DuPage County middle school students can get an early start on college preparation at a bilingual presentation today in Glendale Heights.

The two-hour long workshop focuses on the importance of getting an early start, the role parents play in their child's success, and an overview about navigating the application process, explained Gilda Ross, student and community projects coordinator for Glenbard High School District 87.

Presenter Abel Montoya, associate director of admissions at the University of Illinois, also will address application essays, narrowing down possible majors, how to apply for financial aid and creating a resume.

A second speaker, Binita Donohue, a Glenbard East High School social worker, will discuss the important role parents play in their child's school success, discipline, setting limits and fostering independence, Ross explained.

Both will present their messages in Spanish and English. Audience members will choose the language in which they want to hear the message, and after one hour, the speakers will switch rooms -- and languages, Ross said.

Though it's aimed for parents of middle school students, parents of fifth-grade students are invited as well as those of high school students.

Today's workshop will be from 10 a.m. to noon at the administration center in Marquardt Elementary District 15, 1860 Glen Ellyn Road, Glendale Heights.

Preparing the Path for High School and College Success

What: A bilingual, Spanish and English, presentation about long-range planning for college and parental roles in student success

Where: Marquardt Elementary 15 administration center, 1860 Glen Ellyn Road, Glendale Heights

When: 10 a.m. to noon today

Cost: Free

Details: Open to any DuPage County parents. While it's aimed for those with children middle school, fifth-grade and high school parents will also benefit.