JVS WELCOMES NEW YEAR — The Jefferson County Vocational School held its student orientation Aug. 19 for incoming juniors, returning seniors and their families. Superintendent Ted Gorman addressed the hundreds in attendance during a brief assembly, followed by a tour of the building and the opportunity to meet teachers. Classes began Aug. 20 and Aug. 21. -- Contributed

BLOOMINGDALE — The Jefferson County Vocational School welcomed incoming juniors and returning seniors during orientation Aug. 19. A total of 438 students are said to be enrolled this school year.

The orientation included two sessions, with seniors and their families arriving first to get reacclimated. Juniors followed, learning about their new school. Hundreds attended the event, with school leaders enthusiastic with the turnout.

Superintendent Ted Gorman, along with Supervisor and Principal Heather Hoover, shared their insights about the start of the year.

“We’re looking forward to a fabulous school year and are excited,” Gorman told those gathered inside the commons. “This is a new environment for you but we have a fantastic teaching staff. They care about bringing you to the end product. We want to get you trained, we want to get you certified and we want to get you a job.”

“I’m excited with you,” Hoover added. “I’m on this journey with you. We have a fantastic staff that will help you on this exciting journey to get you credentialed for a career. I want to welcome you. I’m excited to work with all of you. Let’s have a great year!”

All of the students received an orientation checklist to familiarize themselves with their learning environment. All students took a tour of the classrooms and labs, met with teachers and prepared for the start of a new year.

The students received their schedules inside their respective program lab, paid their student fees, dropped off their supplies and received information regarding lockers. Assigned Chromebooks were distributed, along with school T-shirts and related clothing. School officials were on hand to assist with forms, discuss graduation requirements and College Credit Plus coursework, student special services, work-based learning and student organizations. Juniors began classes Aug. 20, with seniors starting the following day.

Several students in attendance said they were ready for school to resume.

“I’m excited,” stated Addy Degarmo, a senior at Indian Creek High School. Degarmo is enrolled in the early childhood education program. “I’m ready to see the preschoolers,” she noted.

Caydence Degarmo, a senior at ICHS and enrolled in the cosmetology program, agreed.

“I’m looking forward to having clients this year,” she commented. “It makes it feel real.”

Gage Applegarth, a junior at Edison High School and incoming welding student, said he was thrilled to be coming to the JVS. “I came here for a school field trip and picked three labs I was interested in — carpentry, welding and power mechanics,” he said.

Madison Krzys, a junior at Buckeye Local High School, was inspired to join the cosmetology program. “I like doing hair and my mom went here, so it carries in the family,” Krzys said, noting she plans to make a career in the field.

Gorman stated he is looking forward to the year ahead, which will mark the school’s 50th anniversary. “It’s an exciting time here at Jefferson County JVS,” Gorman concluded. “I’m excited about meeting all of the new students I’m coming in contact with in this new role.”

Preliminary plans are in the works to hold an open house, inviting back the school’s alumni.