Education partners plan career expo

Morganton, NC – Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2025

Burke County Public Schools has teamed up with Western Piedmont Community College, Appalachian State University and Work in Burke to host a career fair focussed on work in the education field. The event is planned for Feb. 11, 2025, at 4:45 p.m. at Patton High School. Work in Burke is sponsoring a free hot dog supper, and the event will include door prizes. 

The event is for anyone of middle school age and up who may be interested in a career in the classroom or any of the support positions in schools, including clerical, janitorial, transportation, construction, maintenance, special education support and more. Students will learn course pathways and adults with high school diplomas, two-year degrees or four-year degrees and higher will learn what positions they qualify for now and how to advance themselves through other pathways. 

The program will start at 5:30 p.m. featuring Dr. Betsy Rosenbalm, the director of Partnerships and Engagement in the Reich College of Education at Appalachian State University, as the keynote speaker. A panel of new and veteran teachers and principals will follow as they share experiences and wisdom about their careers. Attendees will have a chance to break out into sessions tailored specifically to their interests and degree levels. The evening will end with stations that will offer more information and an opportunity to apply for a position on the spot.

Keith Recker, director of Human Resources for Burke County Public Schools, said, “This event is designed to be a relaxed and informal time for anyone curious about a career in education to ask questions, explore their options, and take the next step toward their future. With free food, door prizes, and plenty of opportunities to connect with educators and career professionals, it’s the perfect chance to learn more about how you can make a difference while enjoying a welcoming and fun atmosphere.”

Kasey Gardner, Western Piedmont Community College’s Early Childhood Education coordinator/instructor, said, “The Education Career Expo is designed to inspire and inform anyone interested in pursuing a rewarding career in education. Whether you plan on teaching preschoolers, elementary, middle school or guiding high school students toward success, this is your chance to explore a wide range of educational career opportunities and pathways. The Expo will feature valuable information about college and career education pathways tailored for high school students, community members, and anyone curious about the field of education. Learn about WPCC’s Education Pathways, including programs in Early Childhood Education, Teacher Preparation, and Elementary Education Residency Licensure. Plan to join us and take the first step toward a fulfilling career in education. Your future as a teacher starts at WPCC.”

Dr.  Mike Swan, superintendent of Burke County Public Schools, said, “I know firsthand the incredible impact passionate, dedicated individuals can have on our students, schools and community. We need people who are ‘all in’—ready to inspire, support, and help our students reach their full potential. Thank you to our partners in education for helping us make this expo a way to explore rewarding career pathways, connect with our team, and show future employees the first step toward making a difference in the lives of children.”

The full schedule for the evening is as follows:
4:45 p.m. - Sign in and enjoy a free hot dog dinner and door prizes
5:30 p.m. - Keynote Speaker - Dr. Betsy Rosenbalm - Director of Partnerships & Engagement in the Reich College of Education at Appalachian State University
5:50 p.m.  - BCPS Teacher Panel - beginning teacher of the year, teacher of the year, principal of the year, etc.
6:15 p.m. - Breakout Sessions

• Opportunities for middle and high school students - Teacher Cadet, Dual Enrollment, Teaching Fellows
• Opportunities and next steps for those with a high school diploma
• Opportunities and next steps for those with a 2-year degree, including Teacher Assistant to Teacher Program
• Opportunities and next steps for those with a 4-year degree or higher
• Opportunities for employment outside of the classroom

6:45 p.m. - College and career tables - apply for jobs onsite

• Western Piedmont Community College
• Appalachian State University
• Appalachian State University Hickory
• Burke County Public School Human Resources
• Burke County Public School Principals
• Work in Burke
• GEARUP
• Scholarships

The event is free but registration is required by Monday, Jan. 27. Register at https://bit.ly/EdCareerExpo. For more information, contact Debbie Story 828-439-4323 for more information.