Career Awareness

We're excited to share the highlights from our latest adventure in learning throughout the month of March. This month, we've been all about sparking curiosity and introducing our elementary school students to the wide world of careers.

Our focus? Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics. From 2nd to 5th grade, our students dove into activities designed to show them the ropes of different jobs in this field.

Let's Look at the fun activities we've been up to:

**For 2nd/3rd Graders:**

- **Realistic**: We had a blast fixing up our School Bus Learning Board, learning how to use different tools just like real mechanics.

- **Investigative**: Ever tried to organize a school bus full of rowdy kids? Our "School Bus Driving" activity challenged students to seat the right students in the right places.

- **Artistic**: With "Car Pinstriping," students got creative with tape and stamps, decorating their own car designs.

- **Social**: The "Car Race" had us rolling dice and moving toy cars around a racetrack, perfect for a bit of friendly competition.

- **Enterprising**: With "Vehicle pattern blocks," students were creating their own vehicle designs using colorful pattern blocks.

- **Conventional**: "Deliver the Mail" had students sorting and delivering mail to the right locations, just like real postal workers.

**For 4th/5th Graders:**

- **Realistic**: We worked to "Assemble and Disassemble Vehicles," learning about how cars and trucks are put together.

- **Investigative**: "Stock the Shelves" challenged students to use purchase orders to fill envelopes with the correct gift cards, just like in a real store.

- **Artistic**: Using pattern blocks, students created beautiful vehicle pictures, showing off their artistic flair.

- **Social**: "Racing Cars" had us rolling toy cars through tubes and measuring how far they went, a perfect mix of fun and learning.

- **Conventional**: In the "Parking Lot Game," students practiced their parking skills by placing different vehicles in the correct spots.

And let's not forget, we're getting ready for the upcoming solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, by providing the students with solar eclipse glasses.

Throughout all of this, we've been encouraging our students to jump into each activity with both feet and think about what they enjoy. Seeing them discover new interests and skills has been amazing!

Transportation, Distribution and Logistics Kit

Transportation, Distribution and Logistics Kit

Transportation, Distribution and Logistics Kit

Transportation, Distribution and Logistics Kit

Transportation, Distribution and Logistics Kit

Transportation, Distribution and Logistics Kit

Transportation, Distribution and Logistics Kit

Architecture and Construction Kit

Transportation, Distribution and Logistics Kit

Architecture and Construction/Business Management and Administration

Transportation, Distribution and Logistics Kit

Transportation, Distribution and Logistics Kit

Transportation, Distribution and Logistics Kit

On Wednesday, March 6th, the halls of Swanton Middle School buzzed with excitement as the annual Amazing Shake competition unfolded, captivating seventh-grade students and judges alike. As honored participants in this prestigious event, we witnessed firsthand the remarkable display of soft skills nurtured by the Swanton Seven Initiative (SSI).

The Amazing Shake isn't just any competition—it's a transformative journey focused on instilling vital attributes such as manners, discipline, respect, and professionalism in students. At the heart of the competition lies "The Gauntlet," a series of 23 challenging stations designed to push students beyond their comfort zones.

With just 90 seconds at each station, students showcased poise, confidence, and effective management skills in a variety of scenarios. From interviews to circles of conversation, from demonstrating knowledge of current events to mastering business dining etiquette, every aspect of interpersonal interaction was put to the test.

Scores, meticulously assessed by volunteers from the local business community, academic leaders, and other professionals, determined the 20 students advancing to the next round. Among them, one exceptional individual will earn the opportunity to represent Swanton Middle School on a national stage—the Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta.

The Ron Clark Academy, renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and leadership development, provides an esteemed platform for showcasing the talents honed through initiatives like the Amazing Shake. As Swanton Middle School prepares to send its champion to this prestigious event, we celebrate the dedication to character building and educational excellence exemplified by the Swanton Seven Initiative.

In every handshake, conversation, and interaction, the spirit of Swanton Middle School shines bright, preparing students for success not just in academics, but in life.

This story highlights the dedication and excellence of Swanton Middle School's Swanton Seven Initiative and the transformative impact of initiatives like the Amazing Shake.

Penta offers a variety of programs that fall under the Transportation, Distribution and Logistics Career Cluster.

Automotive Collision Repair provides the necessary entry-level knowledge and hands-on experience to repair damaged vehicles to factory specifications. The program prepares students to begin a life-long career in the automotive collision repair industry.

https://www.pentacareercenter.org/Downloads/PCC_Automotive_Collision_Repair_20231101.pdf

Automotive Technology is designed to provide students with the skills to inspect, diagnose, maintain, and repair today's modern automobile. Students learn to use the latest resources and equipment to be successful in this ever-changing technical field.

https://www.pentacareercenter.org/Downloads/PCC_Automotive_Technology_20231101.pdf

Powersports & Engine Systems provides students with a comprehensive education in the area of maintenance and repair of a variety of engine systems. Students will be exposed to diverse types of equipment that can lead to employment opportunities in areas such as powersports, lawn/garden, agriculture, marine, material handling, trucking, and agricultural/industrial equipment industries.

https://www.pentacareercenter.org/Downloads/PCC_Powersports_Engine_Systems_20231101.pdf

Automotive Technology (Level 1) is designed to provide students with fundamental skills necessary to succeed in an ever changing and challenging industry. Automotive Skills: • Vehicle maintenance • Brake service • Tire service • Cleaning and detailing vehicles

https://www.pentacareercenter.org/Downloads/PCC_Automotive_Technology_1_20231101.pdf

Step into the vibrant world of career exploration at Genoa Local Schools. At the elementary level, 5th graders embark on a monthly journey of discovery through engaging career cluster awareness lessons facilitated by Penta’s Career Awareness Coordinators. Each lesson is meticulously designed to spotlight a specific career cluster, intricately weaving in six distinct workstyles that underscore the importance of hands-on skills within each cluster.

Transitioning to the middle school level, Genoa 7th and 8th grade students are greeted with a myriad of exploratory classes that ignite their curiosity and broaden their horizons. From delving into the intricacies of stocks to nurturing their well-being through health and wellness topics, these classes serve as stepping stones towards self-discovery and academic excellence. The dedicated 8th grade teachers shine a spotlight on college and career readiness, equipping students with the essential tools and knowledge needed to navigate the transition to high school with confidence. Through comprehensive lessons on graduation requirements, seal options, and in-depth exploration of PENTA programs, students are empowered to chart their course towards a fulfilling future.

As our students progress through their academic journey, they are met with invaluable opportunities to cultivate financial literacy skills through the esteemed Real Money, Real World program. Collaborating with schools across Ottawa County, the 8th and 11th graders partake in a series of immersive financial literacy lessons culminating in a dynamic simulation. Here, students are entrusted with managing a simulated budget based on their chosen career path and familial responsibilities, navigating through 14 interactive stations that mirror real-world financial decisions.

At Genoa Elementary, middle, and high schools, they are committed to providing students with a comprehensive and empowering educational experience that equips them with the tools, knowledge, and confidence needed to thrive in an ever-evolving world.

Discover the boundless creativity and compassion of Mrs. May's Career Connections class as they culminate their exploration of the Human Services Career Pathway! Throughout this enriching journey, students delved into an array of hands-on activities that not only ignited their passion but also honed their skills in making a difference in the lives of others.

From the artistry of hair and nail designs to the innovative crafting of fidget toys tailored for children, students immersed themselves in projects aimed at enhancing the well-being of those they serve. With meticulous attention to detail, they crafted stress relief balls, offering a tangible symbol of comfort and support. Additionally, the class engaged in various therapy and counseling games, fostering empathy and understanding while honing their communication skills.

Through these immersive experiences, students have not only gained invaluable practical skills but have also cultivated a deep sense of empathy and dedication to making a positive impact in their communities.

Email: acarey@pentacc.org, memerine@pentacc.org

Website: https://www.pentacareercenter.org/CareerAwarenessforMemberDistrictsK-12.aspx
Phone: 419-661-6468