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Aiken County Career Specialist Honored Statewide

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Middle school students at a career fair engaging with local businesses.

News Summary

Leslie Johnson of Aiken County has been named South Carolina Career Specialist of the Year, recognizing her 20 years of dedication to career guidance for middle school students. Her innovative programs and hands-on learning experiences connect students with various career opportunities, while her collaborative efforts with local businesses further enhance career exploration. Johnson’s commitment goes beyond her professional role, as she also coaches a golf team and is a mother to six children. Her efforts are shaping a bright future for students in Aiken County.

Aiken County Career Specialist Receives Statewide Honor

In a delightful turn of events, Aiken County’s own Leslie Johnson has been recognized as the South Carolina Career Specialist of the Year by the South Carolina Department of Education. This significant accolade highlights her dedicated service and impactful work in the education sector.

Dedication to Middle School Students

For nearly 20 years, Johnson has passionately served as a career specialist at two middle schools: Leavelle McCampbell and Paul Knox Middle School. Her mission? To connect middle school students with the countless career opportunities that await them. In today’s rapidly changing world, Johnson believes that providing career awareness is crucial for nurturing young minds and helping them dream big.

A Special Recognition Ceremony

The pomp and circumstance of Johnson’s recognition took place during a meeting of the Aiken County Board of Education on January 14. The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement as Johnson shook hands with board member Barry Moulton, symbolizing both respect and achievement in the field of education.

Modern Interests in Career Opportunities

As technology continues to evolve, so too do student interests. Johnson has keenly observed a growing enthusiasm among students for fields like STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and entrepreneurship. Recognizing the importance of these trends, she works diligently to provide students with the experience and information that can guide them toward promising futures.

Hands-On Learning Experiences

In her work, Johnson prioritizes hands-on learning, often conducting what she prefers to call off-campus experiences. These are not merely field trips; rather, they are immersive learning opportunities that take students to renowned facilities. Johnson has organized visits to major local attractions like the Boeing factory, the BMW plant, and even the Carolina Panthers stadium. Such excursions allow students to envision their future careers in real-world settings.

Raising the Bar for Career Exploration

Johnson is not just doing her job; she’s raising the bar for career exploration at the middle school level. By initiating a service-learning program, she encourages her students to engage in community projects. As part of these experiences, her leadership group volunteers a minimum of five hours, learning invaluable lessons about giving back while also gaining practical skills.

Connecting with Local Businesses

Career fairs organized by Johnson are a real attraction as well. They have seen the active participation of up to 50 local businesses and organizations, providing students a unique chance to interact with potential employers and explore different career paths right in their backyard.

Collaborative Efforts with Peers

Johnson does not work in isolation. She regularly collaborates with fellow career specialists from across South Carolina through online meetings, fostering a community of shared ideas and best practices. This collaboration ensures that Johnson remains informed on the latest trends and strategies in career guidance.

A Multifaceted Role Model

Aside from her professional commitments, Johnson is also a proud mother of six children and has spent a decade coaching the girls’ golf team at North Augusta High School as well as the co-ed golf team at Paul Knox Middle School. Her ability to balance work, family, and coaching showcases her multifaceted approach to life.

Recent School Operations Updates

Aiken County Public Schools recently returned to in-person learning on January 24, 2025, following a brief period of remote learning due to hazardous conditions caused by a winter storm. While Johnson continues to inspire her students, the school district also took necessary precautions to ensure the safety of all students during this challenging weather period.

A Bright Future Ahead

Thanks to Leslie Johnson’s unyielding commitment and innovative strategies, the future looks bright for the students of Aiken County. Her distinction as South Carolina Career Specialist of the Year is not just a personal win; it is a reflection of the potential her students harness as they embark on their own career journeys.

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