High school students at both Papillion La Vista High School and Papillion La Vista South High School recently had the opportunity to get hands-on with the Practical Assessment Exploration System (PAES) lab, a program designed to help students discover their vocational strengths and interests. PAES facilitators visited both campuses to introduce students to a wide range of skill areas and workplace environments in an interactive, exploratory setting.

During their time in the PAES lab, students rotated through activities spanning robotics, industrial skills, consumer service, and more. Facilitators encouraged students to try different tasks, ask questions, and reflect on which skills and activities felt most engaging or natural to them. The hands-on format allowed students to experience vocational work firsthand rather than simply reading or hearing about career options.

The PAES lab experience is a valuable tool in supporting students as they begin to think about their futures beyond high school. By exposing students to a broad range of vocational pathways in a low-stakes, exploratory environment, the program helps young people make more informed decisions about the courses, programs, and careers they wish to pursue. Papillion La Vista Community Schools remains committed to offering students meaningful opportunities to discover their strengths and find a path that fits.