Graduation season is heading our way, and I want to take a moment to highlight some of our amazing high school seniors whose diverse experiences in Berkeley County School District (BCSD) have truly made a positive difference in their lives.
Recently, I had the pleasure of meeting Lexie Ortiz from Berkeley High School and Amanda Thomas from Cross High School. These young women are already making a tremendous impact, and I have no doubt they will be major forces in the future because of the work they are doing now.
Lexie and Amanda took full advantage of the Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, clubs, and other opportunities that they both believe have helped shape their decisions beyond high school.
Lexie is currently in the fire training program at Berkeley High School. Before participating in the program, she had not considered firefighting as a career option. Now, as she prepares to graduate from the program, she has gained valuable work-related skills and sees it as a potential career path. Although her first choice is to attend college and pursue a career in radiology, she now considers a future in firefighting and emergency safety as well. Coming from a state that did not offer the CTE options available at BCSD, Lexie was initially uncertain about her future. However, the opportunities at BHS broadened her horizons and helped her define clear pathways for her post-high school career.
Amanda Thomas has proudly announced her full commitment to South Carolina State University—Go Bulldogs! She, too, was unsure about her future until she explored the CTE programs and clubs at Cross High School. One thing Amanda said that stood out to me was that at Cross, she had "access to opportunities" and believes that all students do, but "you must apply yourself." Amanda is involved in CTE courses and is an award-winning member of FBLA, BETA, and the National Technical Honor Society. Thanks to these clubs and the support from BCSD, she will be traveling to California and Florida this summer to compete with students from across the country! She is beyond grateful for these programs, which have guided her decision to attend college and major in Business Administration with a minor in Health Management.
When asked what advice they would share with students in Berkeley County, Amanda encouraged students to "take advantage of opportunities, get involved, and see what you're interested in doing." Lexie advised, "try everything you can. You don't have to do it all, but trying will help you figure it all out."
This is sound advice from two outstanding young women who I know will make a major impact and find success in whatever paths they choose.
Parents, if you are interested in exploring the many opportunities and pathways available to our students, I encourage you to contact your school counselor or visit our district website for more information.
Let’s continue to support and celebrate the incredible students of BCSD as they prepare for their bright futures!
