TULALIP — The Marysville Rotary, the Tulalip Tribes and the Marysville School District are partnering to provide what they intend to be a dynamic college, career and work expo for all 11th grade students enrolled in the Marysville School District. Students will be bused from each of the eight high schools in the district to one of two morning sessions scheduled for April 17 at the Tulalip Resort Orca and Chinook rooms.

The district’s goals include preparing every student for college and a career. The purpose of the expo is to offer opportunities for students to learn more about their futures, whether they choose college, careers, the workforce or other options after high school. The expo is designed for students to learn about what is available to them as they prepare for life after high school.

Students will be made active participants during their visits by exploring topics such as scholarship opportunities, financial aid, college application processes and school funding options.

More than 150 representatives will be on site, including those for two- and four-year colleges, technical and trade schools, trade unions, local businesses, civilian employers and branches of the military, as well as community service and volunteer opportunities. They will provide information, ideas and guidance to the students as they prepare for their senior year of high school and beyond.

“The response from the business community has been incredible,” said David Carpenter, high school career counselor for the Marysville School District. “It’s been far greater than we expected. The community is sending a clear message to all of our students. We care about your future and are here to help.”

“Education is power, and this event will benefit the future of the students, as well as our communities,” said Randy Elliott of the Tulalip Tribes Higher Education Department.

The expo will also be open from 4-7 p.m. for students, parents, and Marysville and Tulalip community members across the district. This time will include informational sessions for students and parents. A presentation on the state of economic development in Snohomish County, including the future direction of employment opportunities in the region, is scheduled for 6 p.m. and set to be presented by Dr. Anneleise Vance-Sherman, regional labor economist for WorkSource Snohomish County. Tulalip Tribal Chair Mel Sheldon Jr. and city of Marysville Chief Administrative Officer Gloria Hirashima will also be featured.

“Opportunity Expo 2012 will provide students with a great resource to learn more about their professional passions, career dreams or what educational opportunities await them after graduation,” said Chris Nation, president of both the Marysville School District Board of Directors and the Rotary Club of Marysville. “We want every young adult to know that they are important, that they can succeed and that this event is here to help them achieve that goal.”