Seniors ready for the next chapter
By John Faucher
“How will you measure success in your life?”
Community leaders asked a version of that question to every senior at New London High School on Friday, April 16.
Each graduating senior participates in an exit interview in conjunction with completion of student showcase portfolios as part of the district’s graduation requirements.
High School Principal Brian Yerkey said the exit interviews are conducted in the school’s library by a team of volunteer community leaders.
The interviews help ensure graduating seniors have reached college and career readiness, in addition to achieving the mission of becoming responsible contributing citizens.
“The interviews provide an opportunity for seniors to reflect on their education experience, practice interviewing, and help them build partnerships with local community partners,” said Yerkey.
New London Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director April Kopitzke agrees.
She was one of 14 volunteers helping conduct interviews.
“This was my fourth year completing these interviews and each time I’m amazed at how well students are prepared for this process,” said Kopitzke.
“This experience not only gives me a chance to hear about a student’s future plans, but it also allows me the opportunity to remind students not to be afraid to return to their roots after they’ve explored their next steps in the future,” she said.
Kopitzke said she often shares her own experience as a New London native going off to college and returning to her hometown to start a family and build her career.
“The School District of New London sets the bar for higher education standards and prepares their students to be kind, responsible contributing adults in society and I can attest to that through this unique opportunity,” said Kopitzke.
Inspiration
She’s not alone in sharing those sentiments.
Bill Bishop, manager at Associated Bank in New London, frequently participates in senior exit interviews and other school projects throughout the year involving financial literacy and wise money management.
“Every interaction that the New London High School allows me to be part of is simply a privilege and I am very appreciative,” said Bishop. “These young adults are an inspiration to hear how they will positively impact the world that we live in. They have a deep passion to make this world a better place for all.”
Bishop said the soon-to-be graduates he spoke with last Friday were some of the hardest working individuals he had ever met.
“This group was able to navigate a unique school environment and methods of learning that were different from the majority of their learning career. This also shows their adaptability which is a valuable skill for anyone in the workforce,” said Bishop.
“It was pleasing to hear how they were going to take their individual gifts into the workforce,” he added.
While senior interviews took place in the library, a job fair in the school’s gymnasium offered students an opportunity to meet and explore 45 local businesses and industries.
Yerkey said employers answered questions, handed out applications, provided materials and even interviewed and hired students during the event.
When students weren’t attending the job fair the focus in all classes centered on career exploration.
Teachers had guest speakers, career exploration activities and reviewed the importance of academic and career planning.