Midland Valley High School Career Specialist Areshia Masters thought she might be in trouble when Principal Sheldon Higgenbottom asked her to step outside of her office on May 18, 2021.
Ms. Masters was stunned as she was greeted by a small group of colleagues, Aiken County Public School District staff, and Lower Savannah Regional Career Specialist, Jean Rickenbaker, who surprised her with flowers and the news that she was the 2021 Lower Savannah Region Career Specialist of the Year.
Speechless and on the verge of tears, Masters said she was honored and humbled by the award, especially being having been selected from among so many outstanding career specialists in the school district.
“I was never expecting anything like this,” stated Masters. “It means a lot to know that the recognition is there for the job that we do as career specialists.”
Ms. Masters has served at a Career Specialist for Aiken County Public Schools since 2007. She began her career at Midland Valley High School, transitioned to Leavelle McCampbell Middle School for four years, and is now back at Midland Valley High. In her role she promotes and coordinates career-related events, job shadowing opportunities, and work-based learning opportunities for students.
“Ms. Masters is a dedicated advocate of CTE, and so deserving of this honor,” stated said Sharon Worley, Coordinator of Counseling and Career Specialists for Aiken County Public Schools. “Not only does she foster personal relationships with students and their families, but she is also a leader among her peers who often seek her advice and input about programing ideas.”
Listed among a talented group of peers, Ms. Masters is an outstanding choice for the 2021 Lower Savannah Region Career Specialist of the Year due to her passion for Career and Technology (CTE) programming and dedication to her students.
During her time as a middle school career specialist, she ensured every student understood the available course offerings and CTE pathways before they entered high school, and was meticulous in making sure she had a personal conversation with every student and parent about CTE pathways. Ms. Masters also emphasizes the importance of academics and assists students in making the connection between academic success and their post-secondary goals.
“I love being at the high school where I can help students with the decisions being made that affect their future, whether it is college, military, or training for the workforce,” commented Masters.
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LINK TO DISTRICT PRESS RELEASE: 2021 PR MVHS CAREER SPECIALIST OF THE YEAR