From Stafford County Schools:
Stafford County Public Schools held its inaugural Chart Your Future Expo on Wednesday, October 12, 2022, at the Fredericksburg Expo & Conference Center. The event hosted more than 1500 seniors and post-graduate students from all five Stafford high schools, the Phoenix Center, Project SEARCH, as well as the school system’s separate public and private day schools. The event featured content sessions led by industry experts as well as one-on-one interactions with colleges, universities, major employers, and military branches. Stafford students also attended personalized breakout sessions during the event based on an interest survey each completed.
“Our mission is to inspire and empower students so that they are prepared to excel,” said Dr. Thomas W. Taylor, Stafford Schools Superintendent. “Chart Your Future was an opportunity for our region to explore career and enlistment opportunities, as well as meet with local colleges and universities.”
More than 80 local community and business leaders connected directly with students to answer questions regarding the joys and challenges of their profession and offer them individual advice on the required training and skills necessary for their future career choices. Exhibitors offered students the opportunity to apply for jobs, internships, military service, or college while at their booth.
After returning to school, Stafford seniors completed and provided their school counselors with a card detailing their plans for life after high school.
“We want to make sure that every student is set up for success,” said Dr. Taylor. “Our counselors will use these cards to help students apply for jobs, complete financial aid information, select service options, or simply begin the discussion surrounding ‘What comes next?’”
Regional high school students were invited to attend the exhibitor portion of the event from 2-6 p.m.
“Every student and their family should have the opportunity to prepare and plan for their child’s future,” said Dr. Taylor. “I am thrilled that we were able to offer the opportunity for our neighbors to attend and meet with so many community leaders, partners, and educators at the free event.”
For more information about Stafford County Public Schools visit www.staffordschools.net.
