Attending college is not always an option for many students who graduate from high school each year, but tight education budgets may leave them unprepared for the high-tech work force.

To help combat this problem, the Selma City School System recently received a $2,400 grant to support career awareness, exploration and preparation activities for its students.

The grant was funded through the Central Alabama School To Career, an 11-county program that works with students from elementary school to high school.

Shari Day, coordinator of the STC, said the money will be used to provide Selma City students in grades 7 through 12 with career opportunities as well as being able to function in the business world.

Other programs sponsored by the STC include CareerScope, which allows students to assess their interests and aptitudes. There is also a program called Real World that offers a hands-on simulation to explore career opportunities and make lifestyle and budget choices similar to what adults face on a daily basis.

This Halloween, Day said, she is working with Clark Elementary School with an event where students dress up like what they want to be when they grow up.

The STC was created by the Central Alabama Community Foundation, an organization funded through the Hyundai Motor Company of Alabama.

Superintendent Dr. James Carter said he was elated to receive the grant on Tuesday.

With the school budget the way it is, Carter said, this grant is a &uot;step in the right direction&uot; in ensuring students get the education they need.