Image above is from one of the many virtual tours that Great Oaks now offers to students that cannot visit the campus
Choosing classes to take during high school can be a challenge. Sophomores at area high schools typically get the chance to visit the career labs at Great Oaks campuses before making such a decision, but with current pandemic restrictions many sophomores may not have that opportunity.
“Seeing the professional equipment and technology that our students use in their programs is important for those considering a career program,” said Great Oaks Director of Student Services Nancy Mulvey. “We want them to get to know the instructor, hear from other students and graduates, and walk through the labs.” Mulvey said that because most of Great Oaks’ 36 school districts aren’t able to send groups of sophomores to tour the nearest campus, Great Oaks has created virtual tours.
The virtual tours, posted on greatoaks.com, include 360-degree views of each lab at each campus, along with profiles of the instructors, conversations with alumni, pictures of students at work, and information about future careers.
“Thousands of students each year apply for these hands-on, experiential learning programs that lead to professional certifications,” said Mulvey. “We want to make sure that they have a chance to explore and ask questions.”
To virtually visit a Great Oaks campus, go to www.greatoaks.com/virtualtours.
Mulvey has served the students of Great Oaks Career Campuses for more than 30 years as a math teacher, counselor, career specialist, campus dean, and district administrator. In her current role as Director of Student Services, she has strengthened both physical health and mental health services for students, led the effort to rewrite Board policies, began a summer camp program for younger students, and helped guide the district to record levels of high school enrollment.