QUINCY — The Adams County Career Guidance Team is recognizing two teachers as part of National Teacher Appreciation Week.
The Career Guidance Team selected Saylor Drawe, a third grade teacher from Baldwin Elementary School in Quincy, and Denise Presser, a middle school teacher at Unity Middle School in Mendon, who were chosen from a pool of nominations across both public and parochial schools in the county.
The team said both stood out for their commitment to preparing students for life beyond the classroom. From integrating career readiness into everyday lessons to forging connections with local employers, their dedication is helping shape the future of our workforce. The teachers were recognized Tuesday with gifts, donated by local businesses and organizations.
Drawe was recognized for making a lasting impact by preparing her students for the future in an engaging and meaningful way. Throughout the school year, she integrates real-world learning into her classroom through creative transformations that not only teach academic concepts but also expose students to a variety of career paths.
Whether she’s turning her classroom into a bustling coffee shop, a lively carnival or a fully functioning kitchen, Drawe uses these immersive experiences to help students develop essential life skills and explore potential careers.
Presser was recognized for helping her students envision and prepare for their futures through personalized guidance and intentional planning. Presser’s classroom goes beyond traditional instruction, focusing on real-world application and long-term success for every student.
Each student completes a research paper focused on a career they are interested in pursuing after graduation — ranging from hands-on trades like construction and mechanics to professional fields such as veterinary medicine. These projects not only strengthen research and writing skills but also encourage students to begin thinking critically about their goals and how to achieve them.
In addition to classroom assignments, Presser meets individually with each of her students to discuss their post-high school plans. Together, they explore whether college, trade school, or a certification program is the right path.
The Career Guidance Team will host its Career Launch Signing Day on Tuesday at John Wood Community College’s Workforce Development Center to honor eight talented students from JWCC and Quincy Area Vocational Technical Center who are kicking off their careers with local employers.
These students have landed positions with some of the region’s major employers — Blessing Health System, Sharkey Transportation, Sunset Home, Gem City Ford, Smith Brothers Honda and Quincy Tractor — and will be celebrated for choosing to grow their futures right here at home. Surrounded by family, educators and employers, each student will sign a Work-Ready Pledge, a symbolic promise to excel in the workplace. They’ll also receive a commemorative certificate recognizing their achievement and commitment.
The Adams County Career Guidance Team is made up of partners from Great River Economic Development Foundation, the Illinois Workforce Innovation Board, JWCC, QAVTC, Junior Achievement, area school counselors and local employers, with the mission to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and inspiration to explore and pursue the wide variety of careers available in our region.
