Mrs. Preston's LIFE (Living Independently & Financial Education) classes had a great first Future Friday presentation on October 13! Rebecca Andreula, an Associate Broker from Exit Realty Front and Center, and Nate Kelsey, a mortgage banker from Premium Mortgage, visited to discuss their roles. They also broke down the home buying process for seniors.
In the LIFE course, seniors learn real-world math skills such as budgeting, taxes, cooking, interview skills, credit scores, interest rates, and home buying. These Future Friday speakers perfectly complemented their curriculum! The classes look forward to more Future Friday opportunities to come!
On October 27, Mrs. Preston’s LIFE (Living Independently & Financial Education) classes engaged in another productive Future Friday presentation. The presenter was Brett Pennefeather, President of Eck Plastics in Binghamton. Brett spoke about what it’s like to oversee a company and dove into the financial ins and outs of running a successful business.
On November 27, Megan Decker, owner of Color & Curse Salon in Endwell, visited Mrs. Preston's LIFE classes to speak with students about her career. She shared the daily responsibilities of being a hairstylist and business owner and talked about the various ways she uses math daily. She also discussed various aspects of her work, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and offering insights into customer service and the evolving nature of the hairstyling industry.
On December 1, the special guest was Mrs. Preston's husband, Trooper Lyle Preston. Trooper Preston has 11 years of experience with the State Police and currently serves as the Field Information Technology Specialist at the new Cazenovia Academy. He discussed his specialized IT position as well as his experiences during his time in the field with students.
On January 12, Andy Kline, the store manager of Lowe’s in Vestal, visited Mrs. Preston's LIFE (Living Independently & Financial Education) classes. He talked about careers in retail and management, and shared how important math skills are in his role.
On January 19, Dr. Lanora Duell, a licensed psychologist, visited LIFE classes. Dr. Duell is currently a clinical psychologist with a private practice who works with clients ages 3 and up. She discussed her educational journey and how she found her path in psychology after not knowing what she wanted to pursue in her senior year of high school. She also talked about the importance of statistics in her profession, along with financial math, since she is self-employed and responsible for managing her own taxes and budget.
Future Friday presentation: Thursday edition! On January 25, Paula Estabrook, Branch Manager of Citizens Bank, visited Mrs. Preston's LIFE (Living Independently and Financial Education) classes. She discussed the role and responsibilities of a bank branch manager and the importance of financial literacy.
On February 2, Kyle Deutsch, a chief engineer at BAE, gave a Future Friday presentation. He talked about the higher-level math skills he uses including calculus and differential equations. Mr. Deutsch also shared how he uses that math to help him problem solve while working on projects such as flight controls for airplanes. It was a great learning experience!
On February 23, Sarah Kline, RN, provided an insightful talk on careers in the nursing field. She shared her experiences and current responsibilities as a childbirth educator for expecting parents through Guthrie Lourdes Hospital. Throughout her presentation, Mrs. Kline engaged with students on several key aspects of nursing such as the diverse pathways and departments within the field, the various working hours across different levels, and the most rewarding parts of the job.
On March 1, Liz Cardone, Vice President at Logowise (a creative marketing company), visited. Liz discussed her role within the company, shedding light on the intriguing world of 100% commission-based work. She also gave insights into the flexible work environment and the diverse companies she works with. The sessions opened some students' minds to new career possibilities they hadn't considered before.
Future Friday Presentation: Wednesday Edition! On March 13, Matt Griswold, Fire Lieutenant at the Endicott Fire Department, visited Mrs. Preston’s LIFE (Living Independently & Financial Education) classes. He shared insights from his experience, the journey to becoming a lieutenant, and how different first responders work together. He also teaches paramedic courses at SUNY Broome and serves as the volunteer Chief at the Port Dickinson Fire Department.
During the week of March 18, students in LIFE classes had the exciting opportunity to participate in internships across a range of positions within the district, exploring everything from clerical duties and food services to teaching, as well as the essential work in maintenance, transportation, and other areas that are all vital to our operations. This experience gave them insight into the many components that work together to help our district run effectively. The students observed these professionals at work, asked insightful questions, and even provided assistance. In addition, students engaged in mock interviews conducted by Mrs. Preston and interview committee members.
This initiative provided the students with invaluable insights beyond the traditional classroom setting, enhancing their understanding of the working world and honing their interview skills.
Glenn Forst visited LIFE classes on March 27. He is the captain of the oil rig named Deepwater Poseidon in the Gulf of Mexico. He informed and engaged students about the maritime industry, including essential training and licenses required for his role, and shared other potential career paths within the maritime sector.