Weston Berryann was thankful for the opportunity to participate in Chancellor Livingston Elementary School’s third annual career day for fifth graders. Twelve presenters from various fields introduced students in small groups to their careers.
“It was fun and I really appreciated it,” said Berryann. “They taught us about what they did and how it’s done.”
School counselor Abigail Meltz and school social worker Morgan LoBrutto organized the event. Prior to the event, Meltz visited with fifth graders to “teach a lesson on career paths and prompt students to think about their interests, skills, values and preferences.”
Meltz said a majority of the 12 presenters were parents of fifth graders, and all of the presenters were from district families.
“Each year, we have a strong group of parent volunteers who bring their passions to life and make the day interactive and exciting for the kids,” said Meltz. “My hope is that students gain knowledge and insight into careers that are new to their world and make real-life connections.”
Meltz added, “It is amazing to have parents in our community volunteer their time so the kids can make those connections that set a foundation of interest and potential internship/networking opportunities as they progress further in their academic journey.”
Principal Brett King praised the work of Meltz and LoBrutto to continue this annual event.
“I thought it went great,” he said. “It was a fun day. We squeezed a lot in about two hours. Students were given insight into what jobs are out there.”
Eli Rogovic took interest in the marketing and real estate positions.
“Career day was really fun,” he said. “I really learned a lot about different jobs.”
Lena Yanossky added about career day, “It was nice of them to come.”
Thank you presenters!
Allison Chawla, social worker; Valen Golden, DJ/event producer; Anthony Capalbo, owner of Phantom Gardener; Joel Giffin, physical therapist; Liz Sgroi, executive director of Food Network Magazine and Pioneer Woman magazine; Fara Taylor, marketing and film; Jon Makhmaltchi, hospitality personality; Daniel LaFontaine, real estate developer; Garrett Smithyman, actress; Pinar Kemerli, professor; Chelsea Gentile, New York State Police detective; Sanya Levi, engineer