Students from the Jefferson Parish Public School System, Plaquemines Parish School Board, St. Bernard Parish School District, and St. Charles Parish Public Schools will explore career opportunities at the 2018 Regional Career Expo February 23 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the UNO Lakefront Arena.
Around 3,000 high school career and technical education (CTE) students are expected at the first-ever event, which is a collaboration of the four school districts as well as JEDCO, the West Bank Business & Industry Association, and GNO, Inc.
JPPSS CTE Coordinator Lucy Lejeune brought the groups together after organizing the first career expo for her district last school year. She says expanding it to involve the entire region makes perfect sense because surrounding parishes and their business communities rely on each other for economic success.
Each of the four school systems will bring CTE students to the event, which is not open to the general public. Students interested in attending should speak with their CTE teacher.
“The mission is for kids to come in and explore different careers,” said Lejeune. “What the salaries are, what skills are necessary, what education is needed, and what careers exist in this region.”
There will be 65 booths at the event. Along with community and technical colleges, students will learn about regional opportunities in technology, health sciences, hospitality, culinary, automotive, carpentry, and other high wage career fields.
Lejeune sees CTE as an option for all students. She cites data showing that 63% of jobs available now require some type of education beyond high school. She encourages students to show up to the expo with a pen, notepad, and a list of questions.
“Just having a high school diploma isn’t good enough anymore. You have to have something to strengthen your diploma,” said Lejeune. “Make notes and ask questions. Make sure you leave with the knowledge of what it’s going to take to get that job. ”
For more information about how your child can benefit from CTE, click here to visit our CTE page. For more information about the 2018 Regional Career Expo, contact Lucy Lejeune at 504-736-1874 or lucy.lejeune@jppss.k12.la.us.