"We have the highest graduation requirements in the state," San Jose Unified School District spokeswoman Karen Fuqua said. "Even though kids are taking classes to make them eligible for college, only half of them go on to four-year institutions."

Fuqua said that African American and Latino students across the state are especially under-represented in universities. Yet the problem is not only with students of color, she said. White students prepare themselves for college and then don't go.

On March 21, representatives from several Willow Glen schools gathered at the district office for "Opening the Door: Engaging the Community in a College Going Culture" to discuss ways to motivate students to attend four-year colleges. Participants were divided by school and discussed methods that teachers and administrators can use to inspire students at all grade levels. Parents, students and staff from Willow Glen Middle School asked questions, shared aspirations and brainstormed ways to promote higher education.

According to Willow Glen Middle School Principal John Tavella, students were curious about how to earn post-graduate degrees and how to obtain scholarships. And Tavella said parents were vocal about their desire to see their children attend universities. Many expressed the hope that their children would achieve more than they had.

He said the middle school plans to implement some of the ideas generated at the meeting and incorporate them into school activities. For instance, faculty members have created a montage of their photos and alma maters to show students the path they followed to become teachers, Tavella said.

Although middle school­age students have several years to prepare for college, Tavella said students need to begin planning for their higher education well before they get to high school.

"If kids don't start thinking about attending college until halfway through high school, they are in trouble," Tavella said.