As we edge closer to graduation ceremonies across the county, there’s always the question: What’s next? For every high school senior, the future can feel like a big question mark. But for Weakley County Schools seniors, they can step into those next steps boldly, thanks in part to the first annual Mock it Till You Rock It event. Every senior from Weakley County Schools took part in the dynamic, multi-part workforce readiness experience designed to give students a hands-on preview of the real world after graduation.
The event, held in partnership with Weakley County Schools Career and Technical Education and Career Coaches, Maleia Evans and the Northwest TN Workforce Board, America Job Center, and City of Martin, was a carefully curated experience, combining professionalism, technology, and practical guidance, all to equip our seniors with the confidence and clarity to take their next steps.
"We want every student to graduate not just with a diploma, but a direction,” explained Kandace Jackson, Career and Technical Education Director for Weakley County Schools. “This event showed our seniors what’s possible and gave them practical tools and connections to step confidently into their next chapter, whether it’s college, technical school, or career.”
Inside the library’s event space, seniors arrived at their mock interview sessions with a level of professionalism that impressed, especially given since for many of them, this was their first interview. They shook hands, made eye contact, and focused on answering their questions not as high school students, but as young adults ready to take on their next challenge.
Community leaders and business professionals volunteered their time to simulate real-world interview scenarios, offering students both practice and valuable feedback. A nearby “thank you note” station reinforced the practice of follow-up etiquette and gratitude that would help them stand apart in future interviews.
Beyond the interviews, students had the chance to meet with businesses who are actively hiring. Companies like Manpower, Touching Hearts Home Care, Weakley County Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, Haven Steel Products, Walgreens, United States Air Force, Job World and StaffEZ Substitute Teaching lined the space alongside college recruiters from UT Martin and Dyersburg State. Businesses offered multiple resources to students of all paths, from flexible jobs that would support them through college or trade schools, to full-time work available as soon as they graduate.
“This is where we connect education to economic development,” shared Maleia Evans, Business Services Representative for the Northwest Tennessee Workforce Board. “These students are not just future employees, they’re the future leaders of our businesses and communities. Events like this ensure they’re ready to thrive from day one.”
Ever wondered what it was like to perform a knee surgery, or be dangling from a harness to build a bridge? Students got just that and more scenarios with virtual job simulations, utilizing Virtual Reality headsets, provided by the Northwest Tennessee Workforce Board under an agreement with the State of Tennessee, to explore careers. It was more than just cool technology and a fun experience, it was exposure that planted seeds of curiosity towards a path they may not have previously considered.
Rounding out the event, workplace etiquette workshops led by Angie Rushing, Grants Director for Weakley County Schools, invited students into honest, practical discussions about soft skills and workplace norms. Rushing coached students on topics such as phone usage on the job, punctuality, and work ethic.
Jeff Cupples, Weakley County Director of Schools, praised the event for its ability to turn real world values into practical experiences that prepare students for life beyond graduation.
“While we always place a focus on academics, our purpose runs deeper than grades and test scores,” emphasized Cupples. “We’re here to instill purpose, build meaningful connections, and support our students as they grow into confident, capable adults. When our graduates walk across that stage, we want them not only prepared for the real world, but excited for the future they’re stepping into.”
Mock It Till You Rock It didn’t just give students a glimpse of the workplace, it gave them real connections, practical tools, and the knowledge that they are being cheered on by a community that believes in their future.
Because for our graduates, graduation isn’t the end, it’s the launchpad. And our students aren’t just walking across a stage, they’re stepping boldly into what comes next.