Newberry Middle School’s Innovative ‘Lunch and Learn’ Program Ignites Students’ Interest in Diverse Career Paths

Newberry Middle School’s Lunch and Learn Program Sparks Career Interest

NEWBERRY — In an effort to help eighth graders discover different career paths, Newberry Middle School launched a program called Lunch and Learn last school year. This initiative aims to provide students with insights into various jobs and professions from speakers within the community.

According to Guidance Counselor Jeanette Cunningham, many students enter middle school unsure about what career they want to pursue. “When we look at the students coming into middle school, they may not have a clear idea of their career interests or the options available to them,” Cunningham explained. To address this gap, monthly classes have been implemented to teach students about careers and the education required for them.

The Format of Lunch and Learn

During these sessions, guest speakers visit the school to share their experiences and insights about their jobs while the students enjoy lunch. The speakers come from a diverse range of fields, including truck drivers, healthcare professionals, firefighters, and fashion designers. This gives the students exposure to professions they might not have previously considered.

“I frequently walk around the cafeteria, engaging with students to generate interest in these sessions,” said Cunningham. “We can accommodate up to 25 students, and they take part during their lunch period.” The guest speaker discusses their career journey, the education or training required, and the ongoing opportunities for growth in their field.

Motivating Students for the Future

Cunningham emphasizes that all careers are valuable, regardless of the level of education needed. The main goal of the Lunch and Learn program is to motivate students not only to explore different careers but also to take their education seriously. “I want them to understand that if they have a career in mind, they need to stay focused. Education is a critical part of achieving their goals,” she stated.

Students have expressed various levels of interest in the program. Some have discovered new interests or renewed their commitment to their studies as a result of the presentations. By learning from professionals in their respective fields, students can better visualize their own future pathways.

Getting Involved

Newberry Middle School encourages community members from different professions to participate and inspire the students. Anyone interested in sharing their career story during a Lunch and Learn session can reach out to the school. Individuals can either call the school at 803-321-2640 or contact Cunningham via email at [email protected].

Conclusion

Newberry Middle School’s Lunch and Learn program is helping mold the leaders of tomorrow by providing them with the tools and knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their futures. Through engaging presentations from local professionals, students are encouraged to explore their interests and understand the value of hard work and education.

As schools continue to adapt to the changing needs of students, programs like Lunch and Learn play an essential role in bridging the gap between education and career readiness.