When you’re a fifth grader, it’s tough to visualize where you may see yourself in the future, but thanks to L.B. Yancey Elementary’s Career Day and Expo, but at least one young person’s eyes were opened to the possibility of becoming a photographer when she grows up.
The “I Am Tomorrow” career expo was held in the school gym on Mar. 22. Students dressed up as doctors, chefs, police officers and more as a way to share information and interests about different careers.
Staff members joined in the fun and parents were invited to participate as well as the children – a much livelier event than last year’s, which had to take place virtually because of COVID-19 restrictions on gathering.
Numerous career professionals set up displays to help the students learn about a variety of career opportunities, from being a barber to a meteorologist. On the list of specially invited professionals was:
- Vance County Schools’ Center for Innovation Robotics Team
- Spectrum News 1 Meteorologist, Vernon Turner
- Maria Parham Primary Care Physician, Dr. Gary Smith
- Fitness Trainer, Jessica Rice-Hawkins
- Entrepreneur, Jinell Cheek of Nellie C Photography
- Barber, Richard Terry
- Licensed Funeral Director, Joshua Hicks
- Musician, Justen Ward
- Entrepreneur, Taylor Evans with Cricut Personalizations
- Representatives from the Walmart Distribution Center
- Vance County Sheriff’s Office
The day started with a parade, and students walked the school’s hallways while Dolly Parton’s “9 To 5” filled the air. Other students lined the hallways,armed with handmade posters with inspirational messages to cheer on the parade participants.
Career Day Expo Chairperson Alicia Clarke said the goal was to allow students to see different professionals as a way to motivate them to set goals for themselves and then working toward achieving those goals. “If this Career Day was any indication of what is to come, then the world will be in good hands,” Clarke stated.
L.B. Yancey Principal Dr. Shannon Bullock agreed. “The school’s Career Day and Expo was a very successful event. The students and parents were so excited to see all the different career choices provided for them. Students were able to see successful individuals from Henderson and other nearby cities, and know that they are able to achieve anything they set their mind to.”