Businesses help with Career Day

To the editor:

On Feb. 17 a Career Day for approximately 500 eighth-graders was held at Central Junior High School. Students visited booths of 36 local businesses and learned more about what each company does and the types of jobs employed there. Another phase included career shadowing. Shadowing opportunities were provided for over 100 students earlier in the month.

This event, sponsored for four years by the Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce Education Committee, provides hands-on job experiences and career awareness. Because this type of activity is also a curriculum requirement for schools, the schools are appreciative of the business involvement. Four schools participated in the morning session (Nell Holcomb, St. Mary's, St. Vincent's and the junior high).

Carol Strattman, principal of St. Mary's Cathedral School, comments, "The Career Day and shadowing experiences are wonderful opportunities for junior high students. ... Shadowing offers students a chance to see if they like or dislike a career choice they are contemplating and gives them a chance to see 'real life' employment opportunities. Career shadowing has been a tremendous growth experience. ... Thanks to Peder Leth and Pat Renard, the scope of Career Day has expanded and now provides a wealth of information for students. We are extremely grateful to them for providing this service to our area eighth graders."

The education committee would like to thank all businesses that participated. It is only through their involvement this part of the student's curriculum requirement can be met. We look forward to providing this career activity again next spring.

PEDER LETH and PAT RENARD, Co-chairmen, Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce Education Committee