UCS sixth graders imagine their future at annual careers event

The theme of this year’s annual Career Focus Luncheon for sixth graders was “imagine.”

More than 2,000 sixth graders focused on their futures at an event that featured keynote speaker Paul Glantz, the founder and president of Emagine Entertainment.

He encouraged students to build on every work opportunity on the path to their dream careers.

“There is no such thing as bad work,” he said. “There is something you can learn from all of your work experiences.”

Glantz said his work experiences includes such things as being a waiter and a bartender, and he uses these experiences to guide him as he manages an award-winning theatre chain with a combined 15,000 seats and 76 screens.

He challenged students to “demonstrate competence, commitment and genuine care” every day in their work.

Referring to the district’s logo, Superintendent Dr. Christine Johns asked students to “Imagine The Potential” as they pursue their dream careers.

“As I look out at these students, I imagine what is possible for tomorrow and the difference you will make,” she said.

Students from all UCS elementary schools are brought together to meet with local business leaders to talk about their career interests and how their educational opportunities will support their goals.

The sixth graders created video resumes they shared with business leaders at each table. Teachers worked with students prior to the luncheon to help them think about their careers and paths.

The annual event is sponsored by the Utica Community Schools Foundation for Educational Excellence.

UCSFEE president Stephen Truman acknowledged the participation of local businesses, community leaders, district teachers and administrators for their common focus on students and their futures.

“This event is a living example of how the UCS community continues to make their children and their future a priority,” he said.