Covington, VA (April 15, 2026) - Students at Jeter-Watson Elementary explored a variety of careers during a recent Career Day, bringing real-world experiences into the classroom.
The event supported Alleghany Highlands Public Schools’ strategic plan goal of ensuring students are “future ready” for life after high school. Even at an early age, students need to begin exploring academic and career pathways.
Although Career Day focused on career readiness, it also emphasized public safety and introduced students to the role of technology in everyday applications.
A local 911 emergency dispatch team kicked off the event by teaching students the importance of knowing their home addresses and how that information helps keep people safe during emergencies.
Building on that theme, representatives from Alleghany Public Safety demonstrated emergency equipment, including a drone, EKG machine, pulse oximeter, and automated external defibrillator (AED). The presentation highlighted how technology supports first responders in critical situations.
Students also learned about financial literacy from visiting bank representatives, who introduced basic concepts such as saving, spending, and investing.
Graphic designer John Morris, owner of CovDesigns, shared how his childhood interest in drawing developed into a career creating imagery and branding for companies around the world. He encouraged students to pursue their interests.
Continuing the focus on career pathways, Corey Bowles, a health science teacher at Alleghany High School and certified athletic trainer, spoke about opportunities in sports medicine and related fields. Bowles serves in the career and technical education program at Alleghany High School. She was joined by former Jeter-Watson students Tyaieja Smith and Gracyn Proffitt, now high school students, who shared their experiences and encouraged younger students to begin thinking about their future careers.
Additional career activities are planned later this month. Representatives from Smurfit WestRock will present “Trees to Cartons, Cartons into Trees,” focusing on sustainability in paper and packaging. Professionals from LewisGale Hospital Alleghany will also visit to read with students and discuss careers in health care.
Principal Cynthia Morgan said the school appreciates the support of the community. “We are grateful for our community partners who help bring learning to life for our students,” Morgan said. “These experiences make learning meaningful and inspire our students to think about their futures.”
|  | Tyaieja Smith (left) and Gracyn Proffitt, Allegany High School students, speak with Jeter-Watson Elementary students about sports medicine during Career Day. They shared their experiences and encouraged JWES students to consider future careers. (AHPS Photo)
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