As part of the Burrowes Elementary School’s ongoing commitment to enhance educational opportunities for its students, the school hosted a special Career Day event, featuring Claudia Deitch, Reentry & Community Outreach Specialist, and Richard Oliver, Youth Engagement Coordinator from the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. The visit was organized under the school’s ARC Core Unit which focuses on the theme “Jobs in my Community” for the 2nd graders.
The ARC Core Unit, focusing on reading and literacy, delves into the exploration of various career paths under the theme “Jobs in My Community.” Students immerse themselves in learning about diverse professions, ranging from firefighting and law enforcement to healthcare, agriculture, and beyond. In an effort to provide enriching experiences beyond classroom lessons, Burrowes Elementary regularly invites community partners to share firsthand insights into their professions.
“Our goal is to not only educate our students about different professions but to inspire them by showing how these roles contribute to our society,” said Alex Rohrer, Community School Director at Burrowes. “Having experts like Ms. Deitch and Mr. Oliver share real-world applications of the concepts we teach helps deepen students’ understanding and engagement.”
During their visit, the representatives delved into their career journeys, day-to-day responsibilities, and the educational paths that led them to their current roles. Claudia Deitch discussed the significance of community outreach and the justice system’s role in helping reintegrate individuals into society, linking her career back to themes of social studies and ethics discussed in class. Richard Oliver focused on his engagement with youth initiatives, highlighting how crucial literacy and communication are in his efforts to mentor young individuals.
The visit ended with a lively question and answer session, where students eagerly raised hands to learn more about the specifics of working within the U.S. Attorney’s Office. “I learned that you have to read a lot if you want to work in the law,” shared one excited second grader, reflecting on the day’s learnings.
Principal Michele Duroni noted, “Our goal is to not only educate our students about traditional careers but also to broaden their horizons with diverse and impactful roles within our society. Today’s visit has sparked curiosity among students about roles in public service and law that they were previously unaware of.”
This event is part of a broader initiative by Burrowes Elementary to connect learning with real-world applications, thereby enriching the educational experience and preparing students for the diverse opportunities that lie ahead. The school looks forward to hosting more community partners who can continue to foster curiosity and aspiration among its students.