A U.S. congressman helped to kick off Signing Week for Logan County high school seniors with a stop at Riverside High School Monday morning to congratulate pupils on their upcoming career decisions, including the student he appointed to the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo.
Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Urbana) spoke to the upcoming graduates, their parents and teachers, encouraging the pupils to set their goals high and then to put in the hard work to achieve their dreams.
“Never let anyone tell you that you can’t do something,” he said. “Before I entered politics 27 to 28 years ago, I had people tell me I couldn’t do it. My background was in collegiate wrestling and coaching, and so this was all new to me.
“If you have something you really care about, first you set a goal — where are you headed? Then put in the hard work necessary and you’ll have the confidence to make it happen.”
Riverside Class of 2021 member Kale Long was appointed to the U.S. Air Force Academy by Rep. Jordan. Kale was accepted for the academy, which has around a 10 percent acceptance rate, school officials said.
The congressman conducted a photo opportunity with Kale, along with his three classmates who also are enlisting in the armed services — Kyle Parthemore, U.S. Army; and Corbin Hamaker and Kyle Robinson, U.S. Marines.
The Signing Day is part of The 3E initiative, also known as “What’s Your E, Logan County,” that was developed by the Logan County Collaborative.
Each of the Riverside seniors in attendance signed certificates declaring their “E” — employment, enrollment or enlistment — following graduation. In addition to the students who are enlisting, 17 Riverside pupils are planning the employment route and 31 are enrolling in post-secondary education.
Logan County Commissioner Paul Benedetti and Logan County Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Ben Vollrath also shared with pupils the importance of each of their decisions being made Monday.
“All three routes are vital to the success of our state, country and community,” Benedetti said. “Everyone in this room has a God-given talent, and we’re excited for each of you as you as you pursue those talents.
“Statistically speaking, about 60 percent of Logan County high school graduates go directly into the work force. The remaining 40 percent pursue post-secondary education or enlist in the military.”
“This event has been many years in the making, and we’re proud of the work each of you have put in,” Vollrath said. “Maybe some of you have already started employment at a factory or working on a farm, and that is valuable and an important part of our community.”
The Logan County Collaborative was formed in 2015 to help bridge the gap between education and industry. Local business, industry, government and educators from in and around Logan County.
The group’s goal is to provide a well-trained and prepared workforce to fill the needs of area employers for many years to come.
Signing Week continued Monday afternoon with students at Benjamin Logan High School. There, 72 students have elected to pursue college enrollment, while 17 signed certificates relating to employment and one student plans to enlist.
Tuesday, the student signing takes place at the Ohio Hi-Point Career Center, where three seniors are enlisting in the armed services, 71 plan to enroll and 78 will be employed.
Bellefontaine High School pupils sign certificates Wednesday, with 70 students enrolling, 50 pursuing employment and four students enlisting.
The week concludes Thursday with seniors at Indian Lake High School, where 12 will be employed, four enlisted in the military and 40 enrolled in college.
Guest speakers for the events also will include fellow Logan County Commissioners Mark Robinson, and Joe Antram and Bellefontaine Mayor Ben Stahler.