VAN WERT — Over 850 sophomores from 13 associate school districts
experienced what Vantage student-life and opportunities are like at the
annual “Sophomore Day” on Friday, Feb. 3. Each sophomore was given an
opportunity to shadow current students in two different career technical
programs of interest to them. During each 45 minute visit, sophomores
gained career knowledge through interactive activities, student-led
demonstrations, spoke to employers and alumni, and discovered
opportunities they may have as a future Vantage student, including the
Career Advanced Placement and College Credit Plus programs.
Carpentry
students were able to showcase the operation of the CNC router machine
while sophomores used handheld routers as well as a jigsaw to complete a
cell phone holder project. Additionally, sophomores learned how to
build scaffolding, which is one of the newest certifications within the
carpentry program. Health information management students guided
sophomores through intradermal injections, electronic and manual vitals,
as well as CPR and stop the bleed activities. Sophomores visiting the precision machining program were able to create an aluminum spinning top, learning facing skills on manual lathes, turning down the metal using a CNC, and engraving the metal using both a 3 axis and fifth axis CNC. Business programs like network systems highlighted computer hardware and software, IT fundamentals and security, while interactive media showcased web design and certifications earned through Adobe products.
Sophomores ended their visit with early childhood education
senior Jorja Forwerck (Crestview) and electricity senior Caden Wright
who shared what their student life, opportunities and accomplishments
look like as they complete their senior year. Sophomores were then
invited to the Vantage open house on Monday, Feb. 27 for a more in-depth
opportunity to visit programs that directly align with their career
interests.
Here are a few frequently asked questions – and answers - about enrolling at Vantage.
Q: Can I go to college after Vantage?
A:
Yes! Vantage prepares not just career bound students, but also those
who are college bound. About 42% of Vantage graduates continue their
education immediately after high school graduation at a two or four-year
college. Students are urged to check with their school counselor to be
sure that all requirements for college entrance are met.
Q: Is College Credits Plus available through Vantage?
A: Yes!
Many of the career tech programs have articulation agreements with
local colleges, which provide some college credit for Vantage lab work
and certifications. College Credit Plus is available at Vantage Career
Center.
Q: Can I participate in home school sports and activities?
A: Yes!
Students are encouraged to stay involved in extracurricular activities
at their home school, such as sports, pep band, drama, etc.
Q: What is the tuition to attend Vantage?
A:
There is no tuition to attend Vantage. Each program has a fee of $100,
which covers the cost of tools, supplies, equipment, and uniforms.
Q: When are applications due at Vantage?
A:
Sophomore and junior students who are considering attending Vantage
should be aware that the priority application deadline is March 1, 2023.
Interested students may complete and submit an online application form
by using this address https://www.vantagecareercenter.com/ApplyNow.aspx
to access the application form. Students may continue to enroll
throughout the spring and summer, however first choice programs may
already be filled. Visit the Vantage website for complete information -
vantagecareercenter.com
Vantage offers 18 different high school
career technical programs. If you have any questions, please talk to
your school counselor or call student services at Vantage at
419-238-5411 or 1-800-686-3944 ext. 2160. Explore the new and
informational Vantage program videos at
https://www.vantagecareercenter.com/Programs.aspx, like and follow them
on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @vccstudents and stay informed of
upcoming Vantage events and enrollment times.
Vantage will
celebrate National Career and Technical Education Month on Monday, Feb.
27, from 5 – 7:30 p.m. All high school and adult education labs will be
open for tours. There will be special student-led demonstrations and
local employers linked to the program students are interested in
throughout the building. An important parent information session will be
held in the Community Room for interested high school students from 6
to 6:30 p.m. designed to answer questions about career and college
opportunities at Vantage. Sophomores should look for an invitation in
the mail and bring the postcard to the open house for a free Vantage
T-shirt.
Vantage Adult Education invites any graduating senior and
adults looking to further their education or upskill to the Vantage
open house for enrollment information. Several grant and scholarship
opportunities are available for all programs.
Area restaurants
will be onsite at “A Taste of Vantage” for participants to sample their
food for a minimal cost, with proceeds going to the Vantage Student
Activity Fund.