In celebration of National Career Development Month, Lexington Senior High School (LSHS) students are exploring future career opportunities through hands-on learning experiences, industry partnerships, and visits from professionals representing a variety of career fields.
Through the efforts of Career Development Coordinator Elizabeth Cross, Career and Technical Education (CTE) educators, and community partners, students participated in activities connecting classroom instruction with real-world applications and providing valuable insight into career pathways.
Connecting Classroom Learning to Real-World Careers
Graphic Design and Adobe
Students in Adobe courses welcomed Nick Woodward from the RCR Graphics Center, who shared how the digital design tools and skills students are developing in the classroom are applied in professional settings. The presentation provided students with valuable insight into the graphic design industry and demonstrated how their classroom experiences can translate into future career opportunities.
The presentation was recorded to allow additional Adobe classes to benefit from the experience.
Child Development and Healthcare
Students welcomed Dr. Elizabeth Andrews-Standafer, who works in Emerging Talent and Workforce Development at Novant Health, and Nancy Newcomb, Director of The Learning Place at Thomasville Medical Center.
The guest speakers discussed early childhood pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship opportunities, along with career pathways in healthcare and early childhood education. Students gained insight into opportunities for professional development and the skills needed to pursue careers in these fields.
Public Safety and Emergency Services
Students in Public Safety courses welcomed representatives from Davidson County Emergency Medical Services (EMS), who discussed emergency response services and provided students with an opportunity to tour an ambulance.
Earlier in the week, a North Carolina State Trooper also visited a Public Safety class, offering students insight into law enforcement careers and the responsibilities of public safety professionals.
Culinary Arts and Hospitality
Students enrolled in Foods II visited the Hospitality Careers Center, where they enjoyed a three-course meal prepared and served by students.
Dressed for the fine dining experience, students had the opportunity to observe culinary preparation, hospitality service, and professional dining practices firsthand, reinforcing the connection between classroom learning and careers in the hospitality industry.
Preparing Students for Success Beyond Graduation
Throughout these experiences, visiting professionals and community partners commended LSHS students for their respectful behavior, active engagement, and thoughtful questions.
These opportunities reflect Lexington City Schools' continued commitment to career readiness and workforce development under the district leadership of April Thompson, Senior Director of Career and Technical Education, Student Services and Special Programs.
By connecting students with industry professionals and providing meaningful career exploration experiences, the district continues to help students discover their interests, develop valuable skills, and make informed decisions about their futures.
Lexington City Schools extends its appreciation to Thompson, Cross, CTE educators, industry professionals, and community partners for their dedication to creating engaging learning opportunities that prepare students for success in college, careers, and beyond.