Career Spotlight

Dear Career Counselor,

I am emailing you today to ask your opinion about when and how to start career planning. I have two children, one at Skyview and one at Arcola. I am not sure their career paths will include a four year college program. I want to get a head start on their futures, if possible. Where do I begin? What resources are available to me at this time? Is it too early to start planning?

Thank you,

Concerned Mom

Dear Concerned,

You have great questions. It is not too late to start with career readiness. Planning will begin in high school, so for now you and your children can focus on awareness and exploration of careers. As you see people working, start a discussion about the career (work environment, tasks, skills needed, etc.). Encourage them to ask questions of friends and relatives who have different careers. At school, they have already started their exploration. Do you know that they began their career portfolio in kindergarten? Students in the elementary years have been introduced to varied careers through lessons, speakers, and career days. These opportunities for career development continue in Skyview, Arcola, and the high school. At Methacton, we want our students to explore their interests, abilities and skills so that they can find their “spark.” What is it that they enjoy, what are they good at, and what can they see themselves doing for their first career? It doesn’t have to be college for everyone.

Our economy has changed and the need for skilled workers is great. You may want to watch the video Success in the New Economy that focuses on the changes. Have your children thought about attending a technical program while in high school? I encourage you and your children to check out North Montco Technical Career Center as a possibility. After high school, there are certificate programs, apprenticeships, technical colleges and the military as other options. Educators, families and businesses are working together to help students find the path that is right for them.

I will continue to provide more information to families and students about career readiness and post-secondary planning. There will be more newsletters, speakers and opportunities for Methacton students to explore the workforce. Keep an eye out and of course, you can always reach out to me.

Sincerely,

Mrs. Schmitz

K-12 Career Counselor

The American Association of University Women (AAUW) and Montgomery County Community College present students workshops and parent sessions to motivate girls to enter the STEM fields. Presentations are led by female STEM professionals in Biology, Chemistry, Technology, Engineering, Physics, Veterinary Medicine and a Discovery Lab. Registration is now open! For more information and to register for this event click here.

During lunch each day, Arcola students had the experience to learn more about high school and think about their post- high school plans. Every day of the week of March 12-16, provided a new opportunity. Representatives from Montgomery County Community College, Ursinus, North Montco Technical Career Center, the Army, Methacton high school counselors and the MHS athletic director were on hand to share information and encourage students as they look to their future.

For more frequent K-12 career updates follow me on Twitter.

High school students, check out the HS Career Center on Instagram.

Email: jschmitz@methacton.org
Website: http://bit.ly/2F2wGD1
Location: Methacton School District
Phone: 610-489-5000
Twitter: @k12CareerCouns