Roanoke City Public Schools: RCPS Works Job Fair Connects Students & Employers To Benefit The Community

Roanoke VA

24 May, 2022

4:30 PM

Description

Press release from Roanoke City Public Schools: 05/24/2022 Nearly 400 students and more than 80 employers attended RCPS Works on Monday, May 23, 2022, the first-ever student job fair hosted by Roanoke City Public Schools. The three-hour event, which provided students with a streamlined way to connect with many employers, included interview coaching, on-site interviews, dinner, transportation, and the chance to win prizes donated by employers. Families in attendance could also apply to jobs. Opportunities included internships, apprenticeships, summer jobs, and longer-term employment from a variety of industries. "We are thrilled by the turnout at our first RCPS Works job fair," said Superintendent Verletta White. "We know our students want to work and earn a little extra income, and we know many of our local employers need employees. This was a true community effort that benefits everyone across the Roanoke Valley." RCPS Works also provided students an educational opportunity to learn about the various industries represented. For example, the City of Roanoke Department of Transportation brought a traffic box and created a miniature intersection to simulate how traffic signals work. Students tried on firefighting "bunker" gear at the Roanoke Fire-EMS table, and Alejandro's Roofing demonstrated how to install shingles. The number of employers and variety of industries opened a "world of possibilities," said Lee Hunsaker, the mother of a rising Patrick Henry sophomore. "These are places I wouldn't have thought of for my son to apply," she said. "I love the wide range of employers. [It's] exciting for adults because you want your child to find what makes them happy." Employers said they were excited by the turnout. Amanda Joines, Director of Food Services for South Roanoke Nursing and Rehabilitation, said her table was overwhelmed by the interest. "To see the interest from so many young people was wonderful," Joines said. rcps.info/rcpsworks This press release was produced by Roanoke City Public Schools. The views expressed here are the author's own.