by Chuck Seaver, SOUTH LAKE TABLET
Lake County Schools hosted the 5th Annual Lake County College & Career Expo for junior and senior high school students on December 11th at the Clermont Arts and Recreation Center on South US-27. The state- mandated program has been held at the Clermont location for the last three years due to the large accommodating space and the hospitality of city staff. Each public high school and homeschool program within Lake County is invited and bused to the program each year. This year’s attendance reached 600 students.
The components of the exposition included 80+ local vendors from area businesses, colleges, not-for-profit organizations, and government agencies, including the United States military services. “Our vision is to ensure that every student graduates future-ready-equipped with knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to succeed in college, career, and life. Events like this expo play a vital role in that mission. By connecting our students with colleges, technical programs, employers, and industry leaders, we open doors to new possibilities and help them make informed decisions about their next steps,” says Marta Ramirez, Director of College and Career Readiness for Lake County Schools.
“Many of our students simply do not realize that there is career and higher education opportunity right here in Lake County where they live. They can live where they work, if they choose to do so,” says Lake County Schools Program Specialist Lynnea Strickler.“Breakout rooms” were provided as an opportunity for students to learn more about local colleges and universities within the state while colleges from across the nation also entertained students with opportunities in other areas of the United States.
“Our goals extend beyond student success. We also strive to strengthen our community and local economy by helping develop a highly skilled and enthusiastic workforce. We want to give our students time to plan for their future before high school graduation,” says Ramirez.
Students or parents seeking further career or college information are encouraged to contact their respective high school career counsellor or visit www.Lake.K12.FL.US.
