Several participants in Sumter County’s Youth Employment Program introduced themselves to Sumter County Council Tuesday evening.
Sumter County Human Resources Director Keysa Rogers told members of Council the 47 students taking part in the program interviewed for their jobs after completing an application process. The students work in different county departments as well as the Sumter County Library and Sumter Senior Services.
There’s also a mentoring component to the program, she explained, and the students have already heard from Sumter County EMS Assistant Director Kent Hall and Sumter Fire Department Fire Prevention Specialist Selena Ruth Smith.
“Hopefully the students are learning some skills that they can take with them throughout life and we’re starting them on their way to be valuable citizens of Sumter County,” Rogers said.
Crestwood High School student Marcus Campbell said he’s working in the Information Technology department, and has learned about managing money, being a respectful employee while attaining some “very valuable” IT skills as well.
Jarod Bowers of Sumter High School is working at Crystal Lakes Golf Course and said he’s learned about working efficiently with time management skills.
Laura Kirby of St. Francis Xavier High School has learned about how the judicial system works during her time in Summary Court while also understanding how an office functions, she said.
Shaliyah Stewart of Crestwood High School works with County Council, she said, and now knows her elected representatives. Rogers thanked County Council and Sumter County Administration for continuing to support the program.
Sumter County Council Chairman James T. McCain Jr. congratulated the students for taking part in the program.
“And I hope it does you well as you continue your education,” he said, “and you’ll learn some skills that will help you in the future, so thank you very much.”