We’re celebrating the impact of PCEF-supported Real World Learning programs by sharing the voices of students themselves. We asked participants two questions: why these programs are important to them and why such classes are essential for high schools to offer. Here’s what they had to say:
Megan Schulz - Music
“This program is important to me because it has created a community that I feel safe in, and it has taught me invaluable skills about putting in the time and working as. a team.
I think it's important to offer these types of classes because they are a creative outlet, and they teach skills that you don't learn in your core classes.”
Jason Broadaway - Aviation
“This program is important because it has opened a whole new realm of possibilities to explore. It has enabled me to learn all I can about aviation and has allowed me to pursue aviation at the college level while still in high school.
There is a high demand for trades in the market today and offering trades in high school gives opportunities to kids who don't know what they want to do but know that college isn't for them. Gaining certificates or experience in the students' trade of choice while in high school gives them a head start in the workplace which can only help them.”
Isabel Rojas - Theater
“The theater department is important to me for multiple reasons. First, because I want to go into theater for college and then professionally. Second, because of my experiences in it. All of my best friends have been made through theater and all of my favorite memories have taken place in the theater. Going to rehearsal or productions is what I look forward to every day. I am so lucky to be able to spend time with my best friends while learning about my passion almost every day. There are so many things that I have learned about myself through this department. First of all, I've learned how to overcome stage fright, which I think is more useful than people would expect. Mostly, the theater department at PCHS has helped make me sure that theater is what I want to do in college. I have also learned a lot about how to connect with people of diverse interests and backgrounds.
I think that having theater at the High School is important because it provides a safe space for kids who are afraid to express themselves. In theater, we are given the opportunity to be dramatic in ways that kids would be scared to in other classes or extracurriculars. We also get to learn about so many aspects of theater like scriptwriting, directing, and Shakespeare. On top of all of this, we get to do it surrounded by the kindest people. I really do think that theater kids make the best friends because they are kind, encouraging, and hilarious. Even if not many kids in high school plan on going into the performing arts in college, it's important that this kind of community is available to high school students.”
Ellen Kuck - Debate
“The debate program is essential to me because it has shaped not only my communication skills before, it was scary to speak up in class, and the idea of standing in front of a crowd was intimidating, debate has completely changed that. Thanks to PCEF funding, Debate is accessible to everyone—no matter their background or socioeconomic status. This means that anyone who’s passionate and dedicated, regardless of where they come from, has the opportunity to compete at and succeed at a national level. Through debate, I've learned so much and become passionate about things I would have otherwise never known about, I've discovered my own values and beliefs.
I’ve also learned to think critically, adapt quickly, and be more resilient under pressure. These skills go beyond Debate—they’ve helped me in school, in friendships, and in how I approach challenges in life. Another thing I didn’t expect was how much the Speech and Debate team would feel like a family. Through Debate, I’ve met some of the coolest people I know—people who have become some of my closest friends, who have become my support system. It’s not just about winning tournaments (although that's nice too :) ); it’s about growing together, supporting each other, and learning from one another. And this is all made possible because we have some of the best coaches, who are incredibly dedicated to helping us succeed. They push us to do our best, and it’s their support, along with the community of the team, that’s made Debate such a rewarding experience for me. It’s really not just about the skills you gain or the competitions you enter - or that you win. It’s about finding your voice, building confidence, and becoming part of a supportive, driven community—things that wouldn’t be possible without the resources provided by PCEF. My only regret I have with the debate program is not having joined sooner.
Offering the debate program and classes is so incredibly important because it equips students with essential life skills that extend far beyond classrooms and tournaments. In a world where effective communication and critical thinking are more paramount than ever, debate teaches students like me how to construct and defend arguments on both sides of topics, actively listen, and engage in respectful discourse. These skills are crucial not only academically but also for our future participation in society as informed citizens. Debate also fosters a sense of confidence and empowerment, helping students learn how to advocate for themselves. Most crucially, the debate program also offers a sense of community for so many, a place where anyone regardless of socioeconomic or background has a place and a safe space to express themselves. So many students, including me, rely on the debate community that has proven essential in my school experience overall.”
Gabriel Villanueva - Aviation & Bright Futures
“These programs have not only facilitated my personal growth but also offered me the opportunity to delve into aviation, supported by resources and mentorship, where the extent of my learning is limited only by my own curiosity.
Both the Bright Futures program and the Aviation pathway cultivate a strong sense of community that many students might otherwise struggle to find. Access to these programs during high school offers unique academic and career advantages unavailable in other school districts. Additionally, they establish a support system that consistently motivates all students to pursue excellence.”
Brian Rea Juarez - Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) & Bright Futures
“The CNA program is important for me as it is an essential introductory course to the world of healthcare. They set the expectations and fundamental norms that most healthcare workers need before entering the healthcare field. The program is designed for you to utilize what you learn throughout the school year and implement it in the real world. If you pass the program, you will receive your CNA(certified nursing assistant) certification at the end of the year, which only a few high school graduates nationwide have. Expecting to work with patients, predominantly with the elderly, I’ve learned patience, kindness, and empathy. Overall, I am becoming a better version of myself.
These programs are essential for students in high school, primarily due to the support and skills you can obtain. It allows you to immerse yourself into your chosen career and learn the appropriate skills and techniques in that particular field. Further, it serves as a guide on whether or not you’d pursue that specialty/career. Unlike higher education/university, you can retrace your steps and look at alternate careers without worrying about a high fee attached to the course. Cost is a factor that most first-generation students, like myself, find challenging. However, through the funding of PCEF, I no longer have to worry about the cost of a class. Also, I would like to thank Bright-futures for the guidance as I continue my pathway toward becoming a Latino doctor.”
Ainsley Dobberstein - ProStart
“The ProStart culinary arts program is important to me as it allows me to explore my passion for cooking in a structured setting. I gain hands-on experience and learn techniques I wouldn't elsewhere. This program emphasizes teamwork and communication and has helped me discover my leadership and problem-solving skills while working with classmates. I've gained confidence in my culinary abilities and developed a deeper appreciation for the artistry of food preparation and presentation.
Offering culinary arts and hospitality classes like ProStart in high school is vital. These programs provide essential life skills, such as cooking and food safety, which promote personal independence. They also introduce students to career opportunities in the food service industry, igniting interest in various roles they may not have considered.”
Real World Learning is one of PCEF’s eight Signature Initiatives supporting its mission to inspire all Park City students to successfully reach their academic and lifelong potential. Click here to see the extensive courses currently offered during the 2024/25 school year through STEAM and CTE throughout the district.
