The School Counseling Department at Sto-Rox Jr./Sr. High School has been guiding students as they explore career opportunities beyond the classroom. Through hands-on experiences, meaningful conversations, and visits with professionals, students are discovering their interests, recognizing their strengths, and beginning to shape goals for their future.
So far this school year, students have had the opportunity to learn directly from colleges, universities, and career professionals across a wide range of fields. Representatives from the University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing and Point Park University’s Rowland School of Business and Crime Science Lab are just two of the many institutions that have offered students an inside look at postsecondary education and potential career paths within their disciplines.
Students interested in pursuing trade or applied careers, rather than a traditional postsecondary path, have also taken part in career-focused experiences. These opportunities included exploring construction careers at the Builders Guild, manufacturing pathways at Mill 19 in Hazelwood Green, and healthcare occupations through a Healthcare Expo.
Beyond these experiences, students have participated in college tours, welcomed college representatives to Sto-Rox Jr./Sr. High School for presentations, and met with members of the U.S. military to learn more about service opportunities. Together, these opportunities help students connect classroom learning to real-world careers while highlighting the many paths available after graduation.
In the classroom, career exploration is presented through XELLO, an online career planning platform that is part of the school’s career readiness program, mandated by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Students in grades 7–11 complete at least two XELLO assignments each school year, allowing them to assess their interests, explore career options, set goals, and create personalized educational plans.
Families play a critical role in this process by encouraging students to complete XELLO assignments when they are assigned in class. With support at both school and home, Sto-Rox Jr./Sr. High School students are taking meaningful steps toward their future—exploring new possibilities, alternative routes, and long-term plans as they prepare for life after graduation.
If you have questions about XELLO or career exploration opportunities, please contact the School Counseling Department at 412-771-3213, ext. 4100.
