Not everyone wants to go to college. For those students, Trinity High School (THS) offers several ways for students to prepare themselves for their futures. THS offers transportation to facilities like Western Area Career and Technology Center (WACTC), TONI&GUY Hairdressing Academy and Penn Commercial Technical School as well as offering a multitude of Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs.
Some of these CTE programs are Applied Horticulture and the VetTech program.
According to the THS website, CTE courses offer students the opportunity to develop critical skills through a combination of classes and hands-on learning experiences, which allow them to apply academics to real-world problems. Click here to learn more about Trinity’s CTE programs.
WACTC offers a multitude of pathways for students to transition directly into a career post-high school. With more than 17 different programs available, students have the opportunity to explore various fields such as healthcare, automotive technology, culinary arts and more. This diversity not only caters to individual interests and strengths but also addresses the growing demand for skilled professionals in numerous industries.
Statistics show that younger generations prefer trade jobs over college degrees. According to the Education Writers Association, post-COVID enrollment in trade schools grew 4.9%.
There are many options for students who don’t want to focus on their grades but still have a strong work ethic. Many jobs in the labor force are looking for someone who works hard, is trustworthy and wants to show up every day.
THS guidance counselors collectively stated, “When thinking about grades, I like to think about the work ethic that grades often represent. Studying, planning ahead, breaking large assignments down into manageable sections and attending/participating consistently are all skills that will help students in the future in the workplace.”
Many students make a big decision about what they want to do after high school. It can be difficult to narrow down options and see what would best suit them in life, but Trinity offers many different options for students that may allow them to make this choice easier.
“Take advantage of opportunities that are posted in Canvas. Attend career/technical fairs, college fairs or job fairs. Go on college visits, visit technical schools talk to people you interact with regarding their career choice and how they got to their current job,” commented the THS guidance counselors.
Another option that can help students set up a future for themselves is clubs and after-school activities. Trinity offers a variety of clubs to choose from.
Future Business Leaders of America is one of Trinity’s largest clubs and allows students to set up a future in the world of business. Whether they end up being a CEO or owning and operating a small business, the club provides students with the necessary tools and information to do so. Mrs. Husk runs the club and can be contacted at ehusk@trinityhillers.net.
The Speech and Debate Club is another that helps students learn critical skills in public speaking and how to have informed discussions. Public speaking is an extremely important skill to have as it can set students apart from other candidates for job positions in the future. Mrs. Berty runs the club and can be contacted at mberty@trinityhillers.net.
Other clubs that can provide students with important life skills are Students Helping Others and Trinity Cares.
Every student must recognize that their life plan will be unique and should not be compared to others. Students should pursue what is right for them and actively shape their futures to be the best they can be for themselves.
