BCPS career expo to highlight jobs in education

Burke County Public Schools and its education partners will host an Education Career Expo from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 29, at Patton High School.

The free event is designed for middle and high school students, college students, and adults who want to learn more about career opportunities in education.

While teaching is at the heart of a school, careers in education also include early childhood education, school operations, exceptional children services, speech and occupational therapy, human resources, administration, and other fields.

Participants will be able to learn what those careers involve, how to get started, and where different education and training pathways can lead.

A free cheeseburger meal will be available beginning at 4:30 p.m., and door prizes also are planned.

Charles Williams, principal of Draughn High School, will give a keynote address at 5:30 p.m. Afterward, participants can visit information booths and speak with representatives from colleges, education programs, BCPS departments, and community partners.

“Education offers more career possibilities than many people realize,” said Keith Recker, director of human resources for Burke County Public Schools. “We want this to be a relaxed place to ask questions, explore options, and connect with people who can help you take that next step. And yes, there will be good food and door prizes, too.”

Information booths will highlight Teacher Cadet, dual enrollment, Teaching Fellows, GEAR UP, Work in Burke and the Next Generation Scholarship, Western Piedmont Community College, Appalachian State University, BCPS Human Resources, exceptional children services, speech and occupational therapy, school operations, substitute teaching, school administration, and current BCPS job openings.

For students, the expo offers a chance to begin exploring education careers before college and learn about programs that can help them get there. College students can explore pathways into teaching and other school-based careers, while adults can learn about current openings and consider whether a career change into education could be a fit.

The goal is to show participants the many ways they can build careers serving students, from early childhood through high school.

“Passionate people can make an extraordinary difference in the lives of students and in the strength of our community,” said Dr. Mike Swan, superintendent of Burke County Public Schools. “We need people who are ready to be all in for our students. This Expo gives future educators and school professionals a chance to explore career pathways, meet our team and see how they can make a difference.”

Registration is required by Tuesday, Oct. 13. Participants can RSVP at bit.ly/3ToetKP.

For more information, call 828-439-4323.

— AKC