Students take advantage of grant
Two local Warren County High School teachers were recently awarded a Highland Rim Tech Prep Grant which allowed approximately 100 seniors to visit local businesses with an eye to exploring the many career opportunities available in Warren County.
English IV Applied Communications teachers Sherry Grandey and Ann Durham wrote and won the $3,500 grant.
“When vocational director Jerry Stubblefield contacted me with the grant information last summer, I immediately thought of career exploration,” Durham said. “I contacted Mrs. Grandey, and we worked on the grant for several weeks. We were thrilled when we were notified we had won.”
The grant provided money for students to experience a variety of career activities at several local businesses. Students visited Falcon Manor, Ben Lomand Telephone, Caney Fork Electric, Tennessee Technology Center, the Warren County Health Department, River Park Hospital, McMinnville’s police and fire departments, and Bridgestone.
“At each site students experienced simulated communication activities, such as media exhibits, police reports, medical records, reimbursement forms, work orders, and reservation forms. These activities allowed students to utilize communication skills learned in the classroom in real world work situations,” said Grandey.
Students also had the opportunity to listen to Social Security office director Jim Glenn discuss topics that might affect graduates.
This is the second year Grandey and Durham have won a Highland Rim Prep Grant.
“These are two excellent teachers, very creative, very organized, and very able to motivate students to learn.” said Stubblefield. “We are proud of them.”