The Mechanicsburg Exempted Village School District recently showcased its student-centered career readiness program at the AASA EPIC 2026 conference in Chicago, Illinois.
Superintendent Dr. Danielle Prohaska, Middle School Principal Marlo Schipfer and Student Success Liaison Sarah Shepherd led a presentation titled “Deploying the Promise: Competencies and Community Mentorship.” The presentation highlighted how the district connects classroom learning with real-world career opportunities through community partnerships and mentorship.
Among the initiatives discussed was the annual Women in Leadership Breakfast, which connects junior and senior students with local female leaders and has led to job shadowing and employment opportunities. The district also recently launched its Burgers and Bros program, providing similar mentorship opportunities for male students in partnership with local mentors and the Ohio Army National Guard.
Mechanicsburg also uses career aptitude and interest assessments through YouScience and SchooLinks to match students with mentors based on their interests, strengths and career goals. Additional efforts include middle school career and technical education opportunities, student success plans for grades 6-12, Career Chats and other district-wide programming.
Through its presentation, Mechanicsburg officials shared strategies that other school districts can adapt to strengthen community partnerships, expand mentorship opportunities and better prepare students for future careers.
