Staples High School Students Explore Post-Graduation Paths

Information from Westport Public Schools:

WESTPORT, CT — For high school seniors everywhere, it’s the season for celebration, closure and new beginnings, including deciding what comes next. While the majority of Staples High School students enroll in a 4-year college degree program following graduation, the growing demand for workers in manufacturing and skilled trades is expanding the opportunities for the 7% who take other successful paths.

They aren’t alone. In fact, according to the National Student Clearinghouse, the number of students who enroll in vocational-focused community colleges across the U.S. rose 16% last year to its highest level since the organization began tracking such data in 2018. In addition, students studying construction trades rose 23% during that time, while those in HVAC and vehicle maintenance and repair programs increased 7%.

“There are many opportunities for our graduates to pursue great careers,” said Sandra Zeigler, Staples College and Career Center Coordinator. “Deciding how they get there means reflecting on what interests them, how they want to achieve their goals and how much they can afford. And ultimately, there are many great options.”

The Staples Counseling Department hosts programming, field trips and College and Career Center visits throughout the year for students of all grades to explore options including the military, gap year programs, vocational training and community college. The Department is excited to host these upcoming events:

● In partnership with the Westport Public Library, “Finding Your Path: Exploring Post High School Options,” will be held on Tuesday, May 14 at the Library from 6:30-8:00 pm. In addition to remarks about planning for the future from Vince Benevento, Founder and Director of Causeway Collaborative, representatives from the military, community college, vocational schools and apprenticeships will be there to speak with attendees and share their experiences.

● The Connecticut Pre-Apprenticeship High School Training program is running through May and offers students opportunities to learn more about how to apply as an apprentice in one of the following unions: carpenters, electricians, iron workers, laborers (building roads and highways) and operating engineers. You can find out more here.

“It’s our mission to prepare all students to reach their full potential, focused on the path that’s right for them,” said Zeigler.