City Connect helping MCHS students prepare for college, workforce, military
MICHIGAN CITY, IN – November 10, 2022 — Students at Michigan City High School are being introduced to one more avenue of support as they make post-graduation plans.
City Connect is a new program, piloted last year, that has officially launched to help City students. Angie Nelson Deuitch, owner of Diversity Squared, is coordinating this initiative at Michigan City High School, focusing on soft skills, job placement, training programs, post-secondary education, and more.
“The purpose is to identify students who want to stay local and pursue education or jobs or go into trades,” Nelson Deuitch said. “Our team of career counselors will give them support and walk alongside them to make sure they graduate, get good employment, enroll in college, join the trades or the military – whatever their future plans are, we are here to help them succeed.”
Nelson Deuitch launched City Connect on Thursday at Michigan City High School, bringing several guest speakers to address students who are voluntarily enrolling in this program. Among those who spoke with students during this launch were Katie Eaton, President of the Michigan City Chamber of Commerce; Clarence Hulse, Executive Director of the Economic Development Corporation of Michigan City; Jessica Underwood, Director of Admissions at Ivy Tech Community College; Kimberle Laws, Human Resources Manager at Central States Manufacturing; Andy Skwiat, owner of Marquiss Electric; Nick Pollock, representing the Indiana/Kentucky/Ohio Regional Council of Carpenters (IKORCC); and Jeff Deuitch, a retired U.S. Army Veteran.
These local leaders all had a similar message for students: There is support in the community, and people who are ready to back their post-high school success, whether they plan to attend college, join the military, or go straight into employment after graduation.
Over the next few months, students participating in City Connect will conduct self-assessments, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and explore the options of military, college, trades, and direct employment. They also will tour the city to meet business owners and visit local manufacturers.
Through City Connect, students will also receive coaching on soft skills such as problem-solving, decision-making, workplace conduct, interviewing skills, professionalism, and workplace attire. The program will conclude this spring with mock interviews and career fairs.
Dr. Barbara Eason-Watkins, Superintendent of Michigan City Area Schools, said City Connect represents a system of support. “We are a team,” she told students on Thursday. “Michigan City is on the move and we’re here to help you be part of the future of this great city because we believe in you.”
More information, including how to enroll or volunteer, can be found at www.EducateMC.net/CityConnect.