S-OCS hosts annual career expo

Spencer-Owen Community Schools (S-OCS) recently held its highly anticipated Annual Fifth Grade Career Expo, offering students a unique opportunity to learn about a wide range of careers. This event served as a platform to inspire students, broaden their horizons and encourage them to start thinking about their future paths.

The importance of early career exposure cannot be overstated. At this pivotal stage in their development, fifth graders are naturally curious and eager to learn. By introducing them to various careers early on, they gain a better understanding of the possibilities that lie ahead.

Events like the Career Expo help students connect classroom learning to real-world applications, giving them a sense of purpose and motivation to pursue their dreams.

Community Volunteers: The Heart of the Expo

The success of the Career Expo would not have been possible without the incredible support of our community volunteers. These dedicated professionals took time out of their busy schedules to share their experiences, educate students about the training and education required for their jobs, and emphasize the importance of essential workplace skills.

We extend our deepest gratitude to the following volunteers who made this event truly special:

Andrea Miles – Nurse Practitioner; Dr. Mike Robison – Principal; Shelby VanDerMoere – Mobile Health Program Manager; Cassie Linville – 4-H Youth Development; Cory Bougher – Remote Instructional Designer; Crystal Minnick & Vickie Dibbern – Respiratory Therapy; Joey Miles – Cybersecurity; Ashley Fleetwood – Attorney; Larry Hensley – Director of Finance; Nicole DeCriscio – Newspaper Reporter; Eric Reno – Safety Manager; Dr. Grant Minnemeyer – Veterinarian; Crystal Heidrick – RN, Case Management; Jamie Neibel – Emergency Management; Rick Smeltzer – Engineer; Jarrod Jacobs – Preacher; Mychal Doering – Career Coach; Samantha Carver – Real Estate Professional; Heather Gott – Workers' Compensation Claims Adjuster; Jasmine St. John – Proactive MD; Opie Rheinhart & Ryan Bonebrake – School Resource Officer; Kim Stahl – IU Health Quality Management; Matt Floyd – Transportation Director; Stephanie Roadley & Carmen Wall – Insurance Services; Cassie Arthur – Registered Nurse; David Elmore – Retired Army Veteran; Melissa Arnold – QA Documentation (BSC); Brandi Wright & Ashley Hollows – Engineers (BSC).

Kennon Wright & Kelly McVicker – BSC Planning; Melissa Gillenwater – OVHS JAG Instructor and Students; Steve and Deanna Stickels – Community Leaders.

Learning Beyond Careers

In addition to learning about specific career paths, students were introduced to the critical "soft skills" needed for success in the workplace. These skills, including communication, teamwork, problem-solving and adaptability, are essential for thriving in any profession.

Many volunteers shared their personal career journeys, emphasizing the importance of determination, hard work and continuous learning. By hearing these real-world stories, students gained valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of pursuing various careers.

A Community Effort to Build the Future

The Annual Fifth Grade Career Expo was a testament to the strength and commitment of our community to support the next generation. By coming together, parents, educators and professionals provided students with a memorable experience that will help guide their future aspirations.

S-OCS is proud to host events like this that inspire, educate and empower students. Together, we are shaping future leaders and equipping them with the tools they need to succeed.