Article written by Beth Lanning, SLSD Career Coach
RACINE- On Friday, March 8th, Southern Jr. High and Sr. High school students were delighted to participate in the highly anticipated Career Palooza.
The event began with energetic music and colorful balloons that greeted students as they entered the school. Southern High School National Honor Society members welcomed area professionals and directed them to their designated classrooms.
Representatives from various organizations attended the event to support and educate students about career opportunities. Project RISE, Ohio Means Jobs of Meigs County, Meigs County Sheriff’s Office, Meigs County Sheriff’s Office’s K-9 Unit, Toyota, Buckeye Hills Career Center, Chicly Confident, Local 18 Operating Engineers, Washington County Career Center, Federal Bureau of Investigation of Cincinnati, DPC Fabrication, Ohio University (Virtual Reality technology), Ohio University Police, University of Rio Grande, Marshall University, Racine Volunteer Fire Department, Syracuse Volunteer Fire Department, Bashan Volunteer Fire Department, Hopewell, BN Tech, Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD), and Carpenters Local Union #650 were among the participants. The military was also well represented at the career fair, with the Army, Army National Guard, and Marines showcasing their operations to students.
Students experienced a wide range of careers and got to see some spectacular emergency and military equipment. Students enjoyed seeing the U.S. Army's Patriot, which is an advanced air defense system. The soldiers showed students how it operated and explained their career journeys. Additionally, the local fire departments were on hand to show off their vehicles, equipment, and tools. Students were also allowed to put on fire protection gear.
Professionals from many career fields and colleges delivered important information on apprenticeships, internships, trades, health care, beauty, robotics, virtual reality, metal fabrication, resumes, teamwork, programs and training available, and so much more.
During the FBI presentation, students were free to try on safety vests to get a feel for the gear the agents wear. They had a fun time listening to what the career paths entail.
During the Toyota presentation, students tested their golfing skills on a mini robotic putting green. There was a wide range of skill levels but everyone had a fun time playing.
A special furry guest caught the attention of many students. They flocked to K9 Deputy Troy Smith and K9 Attila from the Meigs County Sheriff's Office. K9 Attila stole the show during free roam and received lots of love as students were allowed to pet him.
The Career Palooza was made more enjoyable with the support and generosity of the local community, which contributed more than $900 worth of giveaways for the students. Racine Area Community Organization (RACO), Roses' Excavating & Trucking (Racine), Clark's Jewelry Store (Pomeroy), Blueview Outdoors (Racine), Clips and Dips, Project RISE, Ohio Means Jobs- Meigs County, Fox’s Pizza Den (Pomeroy), Pizza Hut (Pomeroy), Taco Bell (Pomeroy), Athens-Meigs ESC, Subway (Racine), Rocky Boots (Nelsonville), Blackburn Hill Church of Christ (Athens), Zonez (Athens), Hills Classic Cars and Parts (Racine), University of Alabama, Seabolt & Co. Modern Apothecary & Spa (Pomeroy), Southern Alumni Association, Chicly Confident, Foggy River Candle (Pomeroy), Glow Tanning LLC (Pomeroy), All American Trophies and Sports (The Plains), Weaving Stitches Gift Shop (Pomeroy), Edward Jones, Hartwell House(Pomeroy), Front Paige Clothing (Pomeroy), and M Squared were among the sponsors. We also had anonymous donors who supported the event. We would like to thank them for the generous donation and for supporting SHS students.
Jonna Turley, Misty Evans, Jenny Hendrix, Martie and Jeremy Rose, Tricia McNickle, Marilyn Cooper, Tammy McClung, Brandi Roush, Jeff Caldwell, Elizabeth Johnson, Chrissy Essick, Tammy Beegle, Kathy Garrison, Julie Murphy, and Amy Spicer were among the individuals who generously donated.
The event's success was made possible through the support of Southern High School Superintendent Tony Deem, Principal Mr. Daniel Otto, Elementary Principal Mrs. Tricia McNickle, Career Palooza organizer and Counselor Mr. Russ Fields, Tech Coordinator Edward Baker, and Director of Operations Mr. Ryan Chapman.
Thanks also to the students and staff who worked behind the scenes to prepare for the event. Art teacher Baylee Grueser and her students created amazing welcome signs for Career Palooza to make the event more special.
Southern Local thanked the guests who dedicated their time to students and teachers by providing a catered lunch. Chef Austin Cole of Culinary Art Company served an excellent menu, which was appreciated by all attendees.
Administrative Add-On: Southern Local Administration would like to also thank all the presenters and those that donated items for this event. Thank you to the Southern Local Staff and Students that made this a great event and opportunity for our students. A special and HUGE “THANK YOU!” goes out to Miss Beth Lanning and Mr. Russ Fields for planning, hyping, guiding, and making sure this event ran smoothly as well as providing an awesome opportunity for our students. You are both great assets to Southern Local and our community.