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White Bear Lake students say HBCU tour broadened college prospects; one student commits to Alabama State
Summary
Student-support staff and participating students told the school board the HBCU tour (started 2022–23) exposed about 80 students to campus life; this spring 38 students attended and one senior announced a commitment to Alabama State University.
White Bear Lake Area School District student-support staff and participating students told the school board that the district’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) tour has expanded students’ sense of belonging and college readiness.
At Monday’s board meeting, Aaron Turner and Lakisha Lipscomb, student support specialists, outlined the program’s purpose and history, saying the tour began in the 2022–23 school year and has grown each year. Turner said the trip is “intentionally created to expose students to college culture, opportunity, and possibilities beyond what they may normally see,” and that more than 80 students have participated since the program began. This spring’s tour was the fourth year and included 38 students from the district.
Students who attended described the experience as life-changing. “Before going on my first tour, I did not know what an HBCU was,” sophomore Bailey said. She added the trip helped her see college as attainable and connected her to cultural resources she had not previously experienced. Senior Destiny announced at the meeting, “This month I actually committed to Alabama State University,” prompting applause from board members.
Board members praised the program and asked clarifying questions. Member Daniels thanked presenters and described the list of colleges visited (including Florida A&M, Alabama State, Tuskegee, Jackson State, Alcorn and others) as impressive; Turner confirmed the itinerary also included historic sites such as the Edmund Pettus Bridge and the Emmett Till Memorial.
Administrators said the tour aligns with district priorities including belonging, student growth and leadership. Lakisha Lipscomb noted that former White Bear Lake students in college have helped lead tour activities, giving current students peer role models. Turner told the board the trip helps students “think bigger about what is possible” and can motivate course-taking and postsecondary planning.
The board did not take any formal action on the presentation. Board members expressed support for continuing the program next year and asked staff to keep the board informed about participation and outcomes.
