Burrell High School student involvement is at an all-time high in Lower Burrell, officials say, and an event in April aims to keep that trend going.
The Burrell Community Connections event, scheduled for April 11 at Charles A. Huston Middle School, will bring together organizations, local businesses, city government and the school community under one roof, said Autumn Turk, Burrell’s director of curriculum and development.
Turk said the district is always looking for ways to increase communication between the schools, students’ families and the community, and events such as Community Connections help school officials build trust with the groups.
“We believe it is crucial to partner with our families, community, and local businesses and organizations to support our students’ needs and provide them with relevant learning experiences that will give them a solid foundation to be a productive citizen,” Turk said.
She said one of the district’s goals for the event is to connect students with local businesses and organizations to learn about potential employment opportunities, as well as the qualifications and apprenticeships needed for those positions.
About 10% to 12% of Burrell students enter directly into the workforce, often gaining industry qualifications during high school, Turk said.
“It is crucial for our students to understand what is offered and needed within their local community, both as career opportunities as well as volunteering needs,” Turk said.
The event will include children’s activities, student showcases, local vendors and food trucks. It is sponsored by the city, school district and nonprofits ABC Create, Communities
in Schools and Parents as Allies.
“The relaxed atmosphere of these events allows us to have meaningful conversations and highlight the positive things happening in our community,” Turk said.
According to Mayor Chris Fabry, while there always have been many student volunteers for various city events, “there has been a noticeable uptick recently.” He cited high school student Jason Wagner’s appointment as a City Council representative this year, 10 students signing up for the city’s Citizens Police Academy and the city and school district facilitating a student bus for a recent championship hockey game.
“I attribute this to the increase in communication between the city and school district,” Fabry said. “Both sides are committed to working together for the betterment of our community. We have routine monthly meetings between both groups, which help ensure everyone knows everyone.”
It’s important for government to engage students, Fabry said.
“One of this year’s senior class could easily be mayor someday,” he said. “Let’s get them as involved as possible.”
Fabry said the Community Connections event is an opportunity for everyone — school, city and community — to come together under one roof.
“That’s the kind of community I want to live in and be a part of,” he said. “I want residents to know who their leaders are, both in the city and school. I want them to know their businesses and community organizations.”
