In a journey to the future, some 40 Summit Academy Secondary – Youngstown students
made a stop at the school’s October 23 College and Trade School Fair. There, they met representatives from Choffin Career and Technical Center, Kent State University, Laurel Technical Institute, Raphael’s School of Beauty, Sheet Metal Workers Local 33 Youngstown, Village Network and Youngstown State University.
“The College and Trade School Fair reinforced Summit Academy Secondary – Youngstown’s ongoing commitment to helping every student graduate not just with a diploma, but with a plan,” says Principal Natasha Walski. “Many students don’t always realize just how many opportunities exist beyond the Youngstown city limits, and events like this are designed to open their eyes to what’s possible.”
Dean of Students Mark Johnson gave the fair high marks. “It was a success. All [our] staff – teachers and administrators — pitched in to make it a successful college fair,” says Johnson, complimenting his colleagues. From the STEM teachers who created mugs for participating schools and organizations to Principal Walski, a driving force behind the event and a presenter on the College Credit Plus program, Johnson says the fair exceeded expectations.
“Michael Nielson made sure parents and students were notified through email, phone and Facebook. He works extremely hard every day,” says Johnson. “Likewise, IEP Coordinator Jessica Schell provided support before and after the event to make sure things ran well.”
Culture Coordinator Greta Glenellen played a vital role preparing hot dogs, nachos, doughnuts and cider for guests and sprucing up the gym for the event, says Johnson, adding, “Jay, our custodian, deserves a shoutout. He cleaned the gym and other areas of school the night before. He stayed at the school until 10 p.m. to accomplish this task.”
Representatives from the various participating schools and organizations expressed their gratification for the event as they presented the many options available to students mapping out their futures.
“Dr. Alisha Alls of Kent State University was excellent and wants to return for more of our events,” Johnson says, adding, “YSU, which is vital to our community, did a great job as well.”
Conversely, members of Laurel Technical Institute, Choffin, Raphael’s and Local 33 relayed their delight
about speaking with the students who, in turn, shared their enthusiasm about the career and educational avenues each school/program offered.
“Village Network also played a vital role in our event and our day-to-day operations,” says Johnson, of the counseling service agency. “They work with our students every day and make sure that students have counseling available. I cannot tell you how much they are appreciated by administration, staff, and students.”
Walski says the school plans to continue hosting similar events throughout the year to inspire hope, opportunity and a clear path toward a bright future for school students.