HOOPESTON, Ill. — Hoopeston Area High School has once again been recognized for its commitment to preparing students for life after graduation, earning the Career Choices Gold Medal for the seventh consecutive year.
The award, presented by curriculum publisher Academic Innovations, honors schools nationwide that demonstrate excellence in helping students prepare for college, careers, and life. Hoopeston continues to distinguish itself through its implementation of the Career Choices series curriculum and My10yearPlan.com®, which help students develop personalized, skills-based plans for their futures.
Under the leadership of teacher Suzanne Lambert, the program focuses on practical skill-building and real-world preparation. Students complete resumes, applications, and cover letters tied directly to their dream careers and participate in mock interviews designed to simulate real hiring experiences.
“I have them do their application, their resume, their cover letter, and they do it for their dream job, the one they’ve identified on their 10-year plan,” said Lambert. “Then they go through a mock interview so they understand what that experience is like and how to present themselves.”
In addition to classroom preparation, Hoopeston connects students with the local community through career exploration events and professional engagement. The school is expanding its career fair program to include the entire student body during the school day, giving students opportunities to interact with professionals across a wide range of industries.
The event will feature interactive career demonstrations and mobile career exploration units, allowing students to experience simulations related to healthcare, technology, and other high-demand career fields.
The Career Choices Gold Medal recognizes schools that demonstrate strong outcomes in college and career readiness, postsecondary planning, and workforce preparation. According to Academic Innovations, the recognition also reflects a school’s commitment to ensuring all students have access to meaningful future opportunities.
“It’s always meaningful to recognize educators who are shaping real pathways for students, but the true impact is seen in how students begin to understand and own their futures,” said Mindy Bingham. “At Hoopeston, teachers and administrators are helping students turn reflection into action by building 10-year plans that bring structure, direction, and purpose to what comes next.”
As Hoopeston Area High School celebrates its seventh consecutive Career Choices Gold Medal, it continues to serve as a model for how schools can combine career exploration, community partnerships, and practical life planning to ensure students graduate with both direction and purpose.
