Students get real-life experience at Community Leadership
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| Business leaders from Nabholz Construction and Beck Design talk to students during Community Leadership. |
The program, now in its 13th year, is the brainchild of Jo McCord, Partners in Education coordinator, and Grace Lannert, Senior High Activities Director.
“Community Leadership is a great way to introduce students to local business leaders to find out about careers located in our city. Many hear about careers that previously they had no interest or knowledge of, only to realize it is a career they might be interested in,” said McCord. “Our business leaders made numerous comments how serious the students were about careers. They told me the students asked very intelligent questions and showed extreme interest in what they had to say. Grace Lannert does a great job of recruiting the students and works hand in hand with me on this event.”
11th and 12th grade students, who are required to meet certain criteria in order to attend the event, join round table discussions with various leaders from the community representing many businesses and occupations. Students are able to ask questions directly of the community leaders in a relaxed setting.
Many career choices are represented, from local medical professionals and law enforcement to food services and real estate
Some students already have their career plans and goals mapped out while other students are still searching for their career goals. All of the students who participated say the seminar was a valuable experience for them and are asked at the end to give their opinion on the day’s events.
Their anonymous statements said a lot about the day’s events.
“Volunteering to come to talk to students showed me how much the community leaders care about the youth.”
“There are a lot of career opportunities in BA and a lot of people choose this town to start their business.”
“A positive outlook on careers can make your dreams happen. Don’t let anyone tell you what you can or cannot do.”