Bullitt County Public Schools continues its commitment to preparing every student for success beyond graduation by creating meaningful learning experiences that connect classroom instruction to real-world application. At Overdale Elementary School, fourth-grade students recently participated in an engaging career-based Project-Based Learning experience that helped them explore future possibilities, strengthen their communication skills, and build confidence in their ability to navigate their own learning journeys.
This innovative project reflects the district’s “Moving Forward” vision by showing how early exposure to career pathways supports student success over time. Through intentional instruction, community involvement, and student-centered design, Overdale educators provided learners with opportunities to connect their interests to future goals while developing their skills in BCPS Graduate Profile competencies.
The learning experience began with students completing a career cluster survey designed to help them identify career areas that aligned with their interests and strengths. Using their results, students selected a career cluster and began researching careers connected to that field. This process encouraged reflection, curiosity, and ownership of learning, reinforcing the Graduate Profile competency of Self-Directed Navigator.
Students then researched three different careers within their selected cluster and chose one career to explore in greater depth. To gain authentic insight, students conducted interviews with community members who currently work in their chosen professions. These interviews allowed students to learn directly from professionals about job responsibilities, required skills, and educational pathways. The experience supported career awareness while strengthening communication and listening skills.
“This project helped students make meaningful connections between who they are today and who they want to become in the future,” said Rachel Gibbs, fourth-grade teacher at Overdale Elementary. “They were excited to learn from real people and were proud of the work they produced.”
Following the interviews, students wrote informational articles that included direct quotes from their interviewees. District staff members visited the classroom to assist with revising and editing the writing pieces, offering feedback and guidance throughout the process. This collaboration reflected BCPS’s Core Value of Shared Accountability and demonstrated the importance of working together to support student learning.
Students also created professional-style resumes that highlighted their skills, interests, and strengths related to their chosen career. This activity encouraged self-reflection and helped students practice presenting themselves clearly and confidently. Resume writing reinforced both the Self-Directed Navigator and Effective Communicator competencies within the BCPS Graduate Profile, even at an early grade level.
As part of the project, Dr. Lee Barger, BCPS’ Director of College and Career Readiness and Innovation, visited Overdale Elementary to speak with students about career pathways and how early exploration supports success in middle school, high school, and beyond. Later in the project, OES Principal Dr. DeWar and OES Instructional Coach Carmen Bolyard also joined students to provide instruction on public speaking and interview skills. Their guidance helped students prepare for the final phase of the experience and supported confidence building through structured practice.
The project concluded with mock interviews, during which students were interviewed by the same professionals they had previously spoken with during their research phase. This experience allowed students to apply what they had learned, practice speaking clearly about their interests, and receive feedback from community members. The interviews strengthened communication skills while helping students understand the importance of preparation and professionalism.
Community involvement played a key role throughout the project. Professionals from a variety of career fields volunteered their time to support students as guest speakers and interview participants. Their involvement demonstrated BCPS’s commitment to community collaboration. Students saw firsthand that their community is invested in their learning and future success.
The project also reflected BCPS’s Core Values of Proactive Innovation and Future-Focused decision making. By integrating literacy, career exploration, and communication skills into one cohesive experience, Overdale educators created a learning opportunity that was relevant, engaging, and developmentally appropriate. Students were encouraged to ask questions, think critically, and reflect on their own goals while strengthening academic skills aligned to English Language Arts and Career and Technical Education.
Throughout the experience, students demonstrated growth in confidence, independence, and collaboration. The project honored individual interests and strengths, supporting BCPS’s core belief that Students Matter Most. By embracing differences in career interests and learning styles, the experience fostered an inclusive environment where every student could envision a positive future.
This career-based learning experience also supported BCPS’s districtwide commitment to life readiness. Students practiced skills that will continue to serve them throughout their educational journeys and beyond, including goal setting, communication, and self-reflection. These foundational experiences help students build habits that support long-term success after graduation.
As Bullitt County Public Schools continues Moving Forward, experiences like this one at Overdale Elementary highlight the power of intentional instruction and strong partnerships. When students are given opportunities to explore their interests, connect with their community, and take ownership of their learning, they develop the skills and confidence needed to navigate future pathways.
Through innovative teaching, collaborative support, and a shared commitment to student success, BCPS is ensuring that every learner begins their journey toward life readiness with purpose and possibility.