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Lakewood High expands career-shadowing program; facilitator says 98 of 130 students placed
Summary
Lakewood High School presented a career-shadowing expansion for its practical communications senior elective. Facilitator Amy Gisowski told the board she placed 98 of 130 students with about 55 partner organizations and showed student testimonials describing industry visits from newsrooms to Harley-Davidson.
Lakewood High School on Monday highlighted a new career-shadowing program that leaders and students say is helping seniors explore jobs before graduation.
Principal Joy Morgan introduced the practical communications elective extension and asked Amy Gisowski, the school’s career-shadowing facilitator, to describe results so far. "Of the 130 students in the course, I've been able to place 98 students in the field," Gisowski said, adding the program works with roughly 55 local and regional organizations.
Students described short-term placements that gave them hands-on experience. Gabby Carol Greaves said she shadowed state Sen. Nikki Antonio in Columbus and sat in caucus and session meetings, which helped confirm her interest in political science. Nick Carnavas, who spent time with Rock and Roll Harley-Davidson, said the visit taught him mechanical skills and solidified plans to enroll in OTC’s motorcycle repair program.
Gisowski told the board the program was launched this school year as a senior elective within practical communications and grew from networking events the class already held. She said the program addresses barriers students faced when booking shadow days through guidance alone and that local employers were eager to host students: "These companies are chomping at the bit. They want students in the field," she said.
Board members praised the placements as both a learning opportunity and a fiscal benefit. One member noted shadowing can save families time and college expenses by helping students test career choices earlier. Several members and public commenters urged continued investment in the program and in arts and career pathways more broadly.
The presentation included a two- to three-minute compilation of student testimonials shown to the board. The district did not announce changes to staffing or funding at the meeting, though Gisowski and supporters said the program will continue to expand partnerships with local businesses and media outlets.
The board moved on after the presentation; several public commenters later cited shadowing and other hands-on programs as reasons to support an upcoming operating levy.
