Young men and women from Montpelier were highlighted for taking their first big steps toward their futures Friday afternoon at Superior Elementary.
During a senior signing day ceremony, nearly the entire Montpelier High School senior class had met the goal of the school’s new E3 program, created by grade seven to 12 guidance counselor Stephanie Friend, high school business teacher Bess Cooley and English teacher Katy Brancheau — “the E3 queens” — to be enrolled, enlisted or employed by the time they graduated.
Whether headed to college, the armed forces or the workforce, all were honored for reaching a milestone.
“They’ve been really hard workers. They’ve done everything we’ve asked to get prepared for today,” said Cooley. “... We wanted them to be making informed choices and they’re doing that.”
“They’ve taken a lot of accountability for themselves which is awesome to see,” added Brancheau.
Throughout the year, depending on their chosen path, students went on eight different college visits, three plant tours and visited a military base where they took part in a basic training simulation, learned to write resumes, took part in mock interviews and learned to budget, among numerous other activities and speaker-driven experiences.
“It makes me think we’re doing the right thing, to help them find the direction they want to go,” said Brancheau. “There are several ways to be successful but really planning for the next step is the key to success.”
The seniors, some clad in college, military and employer gear, were recognized in front of a crowd at Superior Elementary by the E3 originators and school administration, who informed the audience of the students’ plans.
CK Technologies Manufacturing Engineer Greg Lee gave the students some sound advice.
“Don’t be afraid to ask for guidance, don’t be afraid to take those risks and opportunities given to you,” he said. “You’re going to do OK. We’re all proud of you.”
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