Our second major theme topic for the semester was all about careers. The content was carefully discussed and tailored for each grade level. We felt careers was a great topic because it allows student to discover their own interests and dreams, while also giving them very practical real-world knowledge.

   Our first subtopic was all about helpful careers. Having knowledge of these careers and their roles in society peaked many of the students’ interests. The younger grades had the opportunity to explore what public servants like doctors, teachers, and police officers truly do. The upper grades got to explore some non-traditional but highly impactful careers such as paramedics, social workers, and the armed forces. The goal was for students to gain a well-rounded understanding and appreciation for the careers that we as a community rely on every day.

   Where our first subtopic focused on social careers, we decided secondly to focus on technical careers. The younger grades explored scientific careers like astronomy and biology. Upper grades took an in-depth look at the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (S.T.E.M.). Since no one student has the exact same interests, and some may be more inclined towards specialized subjects as in S.T.E.M, the goal was to make students aware that there are careers out there that can fit the type of learner they are.

   After, we closely examined workplaces themselves. Getting to know working environments was a good chance for the student to place themselves there. Lower grades explored places such as museums, banks, and libraries from the perspective of someone who might work there. Upper grades got to imagine what it would be like being a lab technician or a stage performer. The idea here was for students to gain meaningful perspective on job settings, duties, and responsibilities.

   Finally, we introduced the students to some out-of-the-ordinary job prospects. They ranged from peculiar to seemingly bizarre. Younger students learned what magicians and wrestlers must do to succeed in their fields. Upper grades were invited to discuss why someone might want to be a beekeeper or a bullfighter. In the end , students were reminded that these “weird” careers take expertise and dedication just as those we view as being more normal. The goal was for students to realize that the world of careers is vast, and it is okay to follow their interests wherever they may take them.

   The students are now poised to get creative with the theme work content and create their posters. It has been a successful run with the teaching content and we look forward to starting our next theme work for the semester.