The second annual Career Academy Ambassador Retreat was held on Wednesday, June 4, at the Youth Development Center (YDC), bringing together student leaders from across the Vicksburg Warren School District for a day of planning, collaboration, and vision-setting. The retreat was graciously hosted by Dr. Susie Calbert and her dedicated team at YDC, one of the district’s valued business partners.
Student ambassadors from Vicksburg High School and Warren Central High School engaged in meaningful discussions focused on shaping the future of the district’s nationally recognized career academies. Among the priorities discussed were plans to elevate academy spirit through staff and community recognition days, expand outreach to junior high and elementary students, and increase mentoring support for incoming freshmen and students throughout the district.
“The energy and commitment from our student leaders were truly inspiring,” said one district representative. “Their ideas for celebrating staff, lifting up their peers, and connecting with younger students show just how invested they are in building a stronger, more unified academy culture.”
As part of the retreat, ambassadors also explored ways to adapt and improve the key academy events in response to changes for the upcoming school year — including the introduction of a new academy at Vicksburg High School and the launch of dedicated Freshman Academies at both high schools. This retreat marks a critical step in empowering students to take ownership of the academy model and serve as ambassadors for innovation and inclusion across the district.
