Leaders from education, business and the nonprofit community came together for the Manufacturer & Business Association’s Executive Speaker Series to highlight the work happening at Erie High School to prepare students for life after graduation.
The panel featured Jason Burgert, Director of Career and Technical Education for Erie’s Public Schools; Riley Warren, Vice President of The Warren Company; Patrick Goodrich, President of Seaway Manufacturing Corporation; and United Way of Erie County President Mike Jaruszewicz.
The conversation centered on Erie High’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) program. Both Riley and Patrick shared notable examples of how their businesses help connect students with hands-on learning, cooperative education opportunities and pathways into local careers.
The discussion also highlighted the role of United Way Community Schools in that work. Mike detailed how, at the high school level, removing non-academic barriers can look different for every student. United Way Community School Directors work alongside students and families to connect them with resources and support. Jason added poignant examples of how the Community School Model has had meaningful and long-lasting impact on students.
Additionally, Mike detailed the important role local businesses play in the Community School Model as Corporate Partners and invited those in attendance to Erie High for a United Way Community School Impact Tour. The tour offered a look at Erie High’s CTE programs and the work happening every day through the Community School Model. It was also an opportunity to discuss ways for those businesses to directly support the work.
Together, the panel and tour offered two perspectives on the same work: preparing students for what comes next.