Barren Middle School Job Fair helps eighth graders explore future careers

GLASGOW, Ky. (WNKY) – Eighth graders at Barren County Middle School are getting an early look at life after graduation through a hands-on job fair tied to project-based learning in the classroom.

The event is part of a project-based learning, or PBL, course that encourages students to research potential career paths and present what they learn to community members. From trade careers to college options, the project is designed to help students begin thinking about their futures before entering high school.

Teacher Jacob Guminski says those early conversations can make a lasting difference.

“At this point in their life, it is so pivotal for them to really start thinking about what they want to do when they grow up,” Guminski said. “They’ve really got freshman and sophomore year to start thinking about what path they want to take.”

Students spent weeks exploring options such as trade schools, apprenticeships, college degrees and military service. The job fair allowed them to showcase their research while receiving feedback from local professionals and community volunteers, who evaluated presentations using a rubric focused on clarity, knowledge and preparation.

Guminski says the project is about more than choosing a single career, it’s about understanding that success can look different for everyone.

“There’s not just one option,” he said. “Everything’s valuable. It’s about finding what makes you happy and what gives you satisfaction in life.”

School leaders say the program helps students feel supported while learning that multiple paths can lead to rewarding careers. For many eighth graders, it’s their first opportunity to seriously consider what comes next, and to see the community cheering them on as they do.