Batavia sophomores recently participated in the first ever “leaving to learn” field trip experience. The idea evolved from a concept promoted by Big Picture Learning that advocates putting students in the center of their learning through community exposure to real workplaces; in this way, students can develop concrete ideas about what career fields they’d like to pursue.
Over the course of two days, sophomores in the Intro to Careers and Finance toured three local businesses and service organizations. For some the experience solidified their career goals while others explored options they had not previously considered. In all experiences, students learned of the importance of “soft skills,” those skills vital in any career such as reliability, timeliness and proficiency in oral and written communications.
From diesel mechanics to graphic design and primary education to emergency medical services, sophomores toured businesses and interacted with employees, getting a synopsis of the career, required skills and education, as well as the future outlook for employment in the field. The BHS team that planned this experience truly appreciates the businesses that took time out of their workday to host the sophomores.
Our sincere thanks to:
- Bonduelle USA, Kristina Raffa
- T-Shirts Etc, Brian Kemp
- Batavia Counseling and Wellness, Christian Bartz
- Turnbull HVAC, Bill Hayes
- Baskin Livestock, Bill Baskin, Paul O’Neil, Jamie Feddele & Richard Hamesiter
- Mercy Flight EMS, Pam Cherry
- Batavia Fire Department, Dan Herberger
- Jackson Primary School, Maureen Notaro, principal and teachers: Sarah Gahagan, Lisa Gilebarto, Lindsey Heassler, Deb Wolf, Frank Ferri, Kristen Fix, Kristina Clark, Tiffanie Amerine, AnneMarie Koukidis, Jess Kolb, Teresa Pellegrino, Renee Manahan & Melissa Mattice
- Chapin Manufacturing, Monica Bekiel
Would you like to host our students at your business? BHS will be repeating this experience in the spring for second semester students. Sessions will be approximately 45 minutes and run between about 8:45 am and 11:45 am; students are accompanied by an adult chaperone. If you are interested in participating in the spring, please contact either Omar Hussain, high school assistance principal at ohussain@bataviacsd.org or instructor Eileen Ognibene at eognibene@bataviacsd.org.
