Polk State Lakeland SALO Hosts Middle School Students

Posted on by Polk Newsroom

Polk State Lakeland SALO recently hosted 50 students from Brandon’s McLane Middle School — and everyone involved agrees the day was a success.

“I have never felt more welcomed as I did at your College,” said Michelle Richardson, an educator at McLane who scheduled the trip for the school’s students.

Polk State Lakeland SALO Director Melvin Thompson

Polk State Lakeland SALO Director Melvin Thompson

During their half-day visit to Polk State Lakeland, McLane students toured the campus, learned about Polk State Lakeland Collegiate High School, and took part in campus events, including making holiday care packages for troops stationed overseas.

“I loved the activities that were going on at your campus. My students were excited to write thank-you cards to the troops and assist with creating care packages,” Richardson said in her email to College administrators.

The McLane visit is part of an ongoing Polk State Lakeland SALO program, Little Eagles at College. Started about three years ago, the program is intended to introduce young students to Polk State and get them thinking about their higher-education options.

Polk State Lakeland SALO Director Melvin Thompson credits his staff members with helping to make Little Eagles successful.

“Little Eagles at College is a huge effort. It’s only with the commitment from everyone at SALO that we’re able to offer these opportunities to area students. We all do it because we agree that it is important to reach out to younger students, welcome them on campus, and help start that conversation about what they might want to do later in their education,” he said.

Polk State Student Activities and Leadership Office (SALO) has offices in Lakeland and Winter Haven, offering students opportunities to join clubs and organizations, participate in activities and events, engage in community education, play in intramural sports and serve on college-wide committees.