Copyright cleveland.com
MIDDLEBURG HEIGHTS, Ohio - Polaris Career Center is inviting local fourth, fifth and sixth grade students to discover future career paths through its third annual Explorer Club, a two-day after-school program that blends hands-on learning with fun. Set for Dec. 9-10 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., the Explorer Club gives students a chance to step into the world of career-technical education through classes taught by Polaris instructors. The $35 program fee covers all materials, and families can opt for early drop-off at 4 p.m. for bonus career exploration activities. Doug Miller, director of marketing and community engagement for Polaris, said the program has grown each year since its launch. “Over the past few years, Polaris has increased its efforts to promote career exploration and awareness among younger students - starting as early as elementary school,” Miller said. “Our Explorer Club continues to grow each year, reaching more students and introducing exciting new classes.” Classes are designed to give students a sample of the real-world programs offered at Polaris. “Explorer Club classes are teacher-driven and align with existing Polaris career-technical programs,” Miller said. “For example, courses like The Art of Cooking and Sweet Holiday Kitchen connect directly to our culinary programs. Explorer Club is a fantastic way to introduce young students to Polaris and the wide range of career opportunities available to them.” The December lineup includes Anatomy Detectives; Build-a-Business; CAD Creators: 3D-Printers & Design; Code & Roll; Derby Dash: Race & Build!; Design & Press: Custom Creations; Mini Movie Makers; Pencils to Pixels; Rescue 911; Sweet Holiday Kitchen; The Art of Cooking; The Sign Lab; Tool Time; and Who Dunnit? Miller said the key to keeping kids engaged is making every session interactive. “We design all of our classes to be fun, hands-on, and interactive - because that’s the best way to engage young learners and spark their curiosity about future careers,” he said. The approach is resonating with families. “Feedback from parents, students and teachers has been overwhelmingly positive,” Miller said. “The most common request we hear? ‘We want more!’ In response, we’re excited to announce that even more Explorer Club classes will be available this spring.” Many classes include take-home projects such as food creations, ornaments, t-shirts and woodworking projects, making the experience both educational and memorable. Behind the scenes, Polaris’ Career & Enrollment Services Department works closely with partner school districts in Berea, Brooklyn, Fairview Park, North Olmsted, Olmsted Falls and Strongsville to share information, coordinate activities and help students discover pathways that match their interests and goals. Miller said parents and educators can also play a key role. “Our advice for parents and teachers: get involved early!” he said. “Encourage young people to explore career options from an early age and take advantage of the many resources available through our Career & Enrollment Services Department.”
