Franklin County Technical School hosted a hugely successful Career Awareness/8th Grade Open House on Saturday, December 7.
Parents and their 8th graders raved about the excellence of the school programs, the quality of the tours, and the high level of information they were able to obtain.
145 families toured the school and 125 students were interviewed for potential enrollment. More than 190 eighth graders applied to enter grade 9 next fall. Counselors and administrators conducted the interviews.
Shop teachers and student volunteers explained and demonstrated learning in a shop environment and talked about post-graduation educational and employment opportunities. Academic teachers, paraprofessionals and students led the tours and answered questions.
Keira Nugent, 13, of Greenfield said she was “very impressed” by the school and was interested in exploring Veterinary Science, Cosmetology and Health Technology. She particularly liked Veterinary Science’s new building and the chance for hands-on experience working with animals.
“What I like about the school is students can pursue what they want to pursue,” she said. “Students have an opportunity to have a good life after high school if they don’t go to college.”
Nugent’s father Jared said the shops with their up-to-date, “industry-relevant” equipment were “very impressive.”
“This is a great school,” he said. “Very cool.”
Jeff Zumbado of Orange, accompanied his son Vincent, 14, on a tour of the school. Vincent, who is interested in Aviation Technology or Landscaping and Horticulture, also sat for an interview with a school counselor.
“This place is amazing,” Zumbado said. “Everyone has been super approachable. Vincent is thrilled about coming here.”
Bristol Stevens, 13, of Gill said she is interested in finding out more about the Veterinary Technology, Electrical, and Health Technology programs. He mother Kelly said she thought FCTS would be a “great fit” for her daughter because of the options it presents for life after high school.
Kelly praised the school’s tour guide and teachers for their depth of knowledge and friendliness.
“They were fantastic,” she said.
Charlotte Smead, 14, of Heath, enjoyed touring the school. Her father is a woodworker and she’s interested in the Carpentry program, as well as Veterinary Science and Welding. Her brother Landon is a freshman at the school and she is planning to enroll as well.
Julie Smead, Charlotte’s mother, said it was nice to see all of the shops open and the tour was informative. She said her son plays football and basketball, and hopes to play baseball in the spring.
“He loves it here,” Smead said “It’s a great school.”