Last month, KIPP Raices Academy brought learning to life with a vibrant, hands-on Career Fair that welcomed students and families to explore a wide range of future pathways.
The event featured 23 career tables, including 14 led by parents, creating a powerful, community-driven experience. Local organizations such as AJCC, LA Music & Art School, East LA Library, Franco Law Group, LA Care, White Memorial, and the Department of Public Health joined families in sharing insights, resources, and inspiration.
Each booth offered an interactive, hands-on activity, ensuring students stayed engaged while learning about different careers. To add an element of fun, students received “passports” to complete as they visited each table — earning bragging rights for connecting with a variety of professions.
The fair was open to all families, with a dedicated hour for expanded learning (EXL) students, giving them extra time to explore and ask questions. Throughout the event, the energy was undeniable: conversations flowed, laughter filled the space, and many attendees stayed for the full hour, eager to learn more.
One of the standout elements of the day was the creativity and intentionality of the parent-led booths. Families shared not only what they do, but why they do it — offering students meaningful glimpses into real-world careers. Resources shared across tables were both practical and inspiring, and giveaways like syringe pens and flags from around the world added an extra layer of excitement.
This impactful event was made possible by the Raíces Coalition — Marisol, Janet, Estela, Charito, Emily V., Heidi, Nicole G., Liz (Community School Counselor) and Vic C. (Community School Manager) — whose dedication helped create a space where curiosity, connection, and community could thrive.
At KIPP SoCal, experiences like this remind us that career exploration starts early — and when families and communities come together, the possibilities are endless.