Eminence earned a unique status last year in Kentucky. We were one of four approved Districts of Innovation by the Kentucky Departiment of Education. This status is built upon a multitude of opporunities that support our students in achieving World Class Knowledge and Skills, College and Career Readines, and Next Generation skills that will set our Warriors apart from other graduates upon their next chapter in life. These three areas of focus are outlined specifically in our Eminence Excellence documents that determine at each grade level the skills in each area that our students will experience. Embedded in the document are clearly articulated experiences that require the students to work beyond the classroom experience to achieve the status of "Eminence Excellence" as a Warrior.
This week yet another opportunity that fulfilled a requirement for some students while evoking the true spirit that makes Eminence School such a special place. A group of 18 high school students put on a career fair for the elementary students in 2nd through 5th grade. We had a variety of careers covered including: a neonatal nurse, musicians, artists, an athletic trainer, engineering, paleontologist, a firefighter, make-up artist, military representation and an American Sign Language interpretor. Again, I reiterate these were high school students in grades 9-12 who were staging a career fair for elementary students to learn about college and career readiness. They brought hands on activities to engage them at their presentations and were excited to serve in their community. It was amazing. These are students who were not required to complete an activity for class, they are students who desire to make a difference in the lives of students in a school that has grown them into unique and incredible individuals. Again, it was amazing.
We never know in a school how an event may turn out as various factors impact outcomes on a daily, hourly, and minute by minute basis. This specific event provided an instant reminder of how much potential our children have if we can have the courage to turn them loose. This project was introduced to the students as just an opportunity if they were passionate about a career and were willing to share what it takes to achieve their dream career. Those who committed did so with an understanding that they would design their showcase on their own time and be fully prepared the day of the presentation. That was it. Their responsibility fully. I was nervous...no reason to be, but I was...I should know better.
In a District of Innovation our work looks different at times and our student involvment continues to move to a different level with each experience. Be proud of your Warriors, they truly are impressive!
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