Academy student opportunities discussed

LEWISTOWN -- The Juniata River Valley Chamber of Commerce Business and Education Committee held their annual meeting Thursday at the Mifflin County Academy of Science and Technology; lunch was provided by Academy culinary students.

Local businesses, school district representatives, post-secondary providers and other community leaders participate on this committee. Committee members aim to provide further opportunities for student career exploration and to provide current local labor market information to educators.

Cher Harpster, committee chair, led the conversation with a discussion of upcoming activities within the schools. The committee announced that Free Wheeling Day is May 15 at the Youth Park in Reedsville.

Free Wheeling Day is a day where all fourth grade students are invited to visit with individuals representing various career options.

The students are encouraged to ask questions to assist in their search for a future career path.

Last year, the organizers of the day prepared 11 stations, and they plan to match that number this year. They have heard from numerous schools and are expecting about 400 fourth graders to attend the event.

A few local businesses in attendance last year included Philips Ultrasound, Fish and Boat Commissioner, Metzler's, Mifflin County Wireless, and Lerch RV along with individuals from the Academy.

Academy signing day is currently in the works and is set for May. However, the committee encourages feedback from parents regarding a time of day to hold the signing.

This day is similar to the manner colleges sign athletes. If a senior gains employment in their program area, their employer comes to the Academy to recognize the senior for his or her achievement. The student may then sign a letter of intent to continue working for their respective employer.

Mifflin County Industrial Development Corporation CEO, Nick Felice presented the committee with a check to help fund some of these events, programs and future endeavors from the Academy.

"It is money well spent," Felice said after the committee expressed thanks.

In other news, The Mifflin County Academy of Science and Technology announced its open house from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 7. Applications for admission open on Feb. 1. Interested persons may apply at www.theacademy.net.