Teachers gain insight into preparing students for the global workforce

Teachers at Independence Local Schools received an inside look at the skills students need to thrive in today’s evolving job market during a recent professional development day.

The event, held at the Independence Civic Center on Nov. 7, brought together educators and local employers under the theme “Culture of Work: Employer Perspectives on Hiring and Working in the Current Global Economy.”

In opening remarks, Superintendent Ben Hegedish spoke about the school district’s partnership with the city to ensure students are “future ready.”

Speakers at the event included MAI Capital employees Chief Human Resource Officer and Senior Managing Director Lesa Evans and Financial Planning Team Leader and Managing Director Jim Perrine; Practice Leader Kevin Kramer and Business Development Manager Dale Kime from Alliance Solutions Group; Nate Kelly, president and managing director from Cushman & Wakefield/CRESCO Real Estate; and U.S. Secret Service Assistant to the Special Agent In-Charge, Ben Tyrrel.

Each speaker offered perspectives on the skills and abilities high school graduates need to launch successful careers. Teachers toured a Secret Service armored vehicle and brainstormed curriculum updates to align with workforce needs.

“Whether pursuing jobs locally or beyond, our students must be prepared to collaborate across cultures and think critically to solve complex problems,” said Hegedish. “This training gave teachers insight straight from major employers. We continue to build these robust connections while we help our own teachers understand future readiness and how to embed that into the classroom.”

“The city of Independence has always had a close working relationship with Independence Local Schools,” said Mayor Greg Kurtz. “Today more than ever, it is important to provide a well-rounded education that includes gaining real-world skills and experience beyond the classroom while young people consider post-graduation careers.”

The goal of the professional development day was to expose Independence Local Schools’ teachers to various career paths and opportunities so they could integrate that knowledge into their classroom lessons. ∞