Real World Experience
Lakewood residents and visitors might see some area high school students working at local businesses around town these days. That’s because those students are doing internships through the West Shore Career-Technical District, an offering at Lakewood High School that aims to equip students with the knowledge, skills and hands-on experience needed to thrive in today’s job market. Students from Rocky River, Bay Village and Westlake also are eligible for the program.
Business Management Program Instructor Cassandra Tetorakis says the business program draws high participation among students and local businesses. It is one of 13 career tech programs housed at the school.
Currently, 23 juniors and 17 seniors participate in the business program. The curriculum includes classes such as banking and finance, marketing and management. Students also must master Microsoft Office before placement into internships. Students currently are working at the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce, accounting firm Laskey Costello LLC and Stepan CPA Firm Inc.
Two of the students, Lay Phalt Htoo and Ella Hyatt, landed internships at the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce. Lauren Small, chamber president, appreciates the helping hands and keeps watch for opportunities that will provide the students with a meaningful learning experience.
“One of their first assignments will be helping us create assets for use on social media,” she says. “They will be going around town to members and taking photos and videos for our Instagram, reels and website. It will benefit our members and build their exposure and visibility, as well.”
Small adds that it’s helpful having the interns to do some of the tasks she doesn’t always have time for. Reviewing and cleaning up the chamber database is one of those jobs.
“The program helps the students and the community. It’s a win-win,” she says.
Small will be bringing the students along with her to meetings, as well. She hopes this adds value to their internships and gives them insight into being a small business owner or entrepreneur like so many Lakewood Chamber of Commerce members.
“It’s real-life experience they do not get in college,” she adds. “Both of these young women have a lot to offer. I may learn something from them, too, and I am thankful for that. It’s all about collaboration and learning from each other.”
Tetorakis affirms that the program benefits all parties involved and said that the feedback from community business participants has been positive.
“Businesses fill out an evaluation every year, and we get very positive comments,” she explained. “It is illustrated by how many of them return yearly and request more students.
“I am in constant contact with them throughout the internships. They say they cannot thank us enough for how well the students perform,” she added.
Celebrating 75 years of excellence
St. Edward High School recently wrapped up a year of celebrating its 75th anniversary. The main event was an epic football game in September at Lakewood Stadium with thousands of alumni, friends and families in attendance. One of the most unforgettable moments of the event was a flyover by a real bald eagle during the National Anthem — a tribute to the school’s mascot, the eagle. Afterward, attendees had the opportunity to meet Clark, the bald eagle, up close and snap some pictures.
Founded in 1949, St. Edward High School is a college-preparatory school that offers the international baccalaureate diploma alongside a rigorous academic experience. Founded by the Brothers of Holy Cross, the school is dedicated to education, service, hospitality and welcoming all people, which is why its diverse student body is such an important part of its mission.
And, with 80 state and 11 national championship titles, the school’s athletics are well-known among the nation’s most competitive high school sports programs.
