Byron

Crossing paths with a brighter future

Byron High School has committed to increase educational pathways for students. The first step in this process was approving and hiring a College and Career Counselor. This position allowed for one high school counselor to be focused on creating pathways that are aligned to labor market trends and supporting the attainment of stackable credentials. In the past two years, Mrs. Amber Swanson, the Byron High School Staff, and community and business partners have been able to do just that.

In addition to the existing Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways of agriculture, family and consumer science, and automotive, five pathways have been established or realigned; these pathways include business and technology, education, medical science, law enforcement and construction.

As a result, students have the opportunity to attain a paraprofessional certificate, CNA (certified nursing assistant) license (in partnership with Generations at Neighbors Nursing Home), the potential for up to 13 college credits in the field of business, or hands-on experiences in the construction industry or law enforcement. In total, students at Byron High School have 31 college credits that they can potentially earn across a variety of academic and CTE domains. During the 2021-22 school year, Byron High School will potentially be issuing more than 850 college credits from Rock Valley College to 160 students. Students Tyler Reed (left) and Denise Braithwaite practice their skills at wiring light switches in construction class.

Senior Kennedy Roth, observing a seventh-grade science classroom, gained valuable insights from veteran teacher Susan Prusator.

From left: Byron CNA students Josie Roth, Maci Roschi, Tracee Nelson, Addyson Myers, and Jennifer DeHahn took part in clinicals at Generations at Neighbors.