Hundreds of high school students in the Service Academy stepped outside the classroom and into real-world careers through a recent job shadowing experience with local professionals. The opportunity connected students with careers in Education, Hospitality, and Public Safety, helping them better understand their future pathways.
Students interested in fields like teaching, child development, law enforcement, fire science, and social justice spent time observing and learning directly from professionals. These hands-on experiences allowed students to ask questions, build connections, and see what a typical day looks like in careers they may pursue.
This experience was made possible thanks to strong partnerships with local businesses and organizations that welcomed students into their workplaces. Participating sites included the Winnebago County Courthouse, Winnebago County State’s Attorney’s Office, City of Rockford Police Department, City of Rockford Fire Department, City of Loves Park Police Department, YMCA of Rock River Valley Teen Program, Johnson Elementary, Fairview Early Childhood, Beyer Early Childhood, Rosati’s, Abreo, Wired Cafe, Embassy Suites Rockford by Hilton, and Holiday Inn Express Loves Park.
Through RPS 205’s College & Career Academies, students continue to gain meaningful, real-world experiences that connect classroom learning to future careers. Opportunities like job shadowing help students build confidence, develop professional skills, and take important steps toward college and career success.
