BHS Programs Pave Way For Success

Bourbon High School’s guidance and counseling programs continue to pave the way for student success, with the majority of graduating seniors securing post-secondary education or employment. 

The efforts from Michelle Ray, BHS counselor, and Trish Lewis, the college and career readiness advisor, have significantly enhanced student preparation for life beyond high school.

According to the latest data, 40 of the 62 seniors have formally declared their post-graduation plans, with five additional students set to be recognized on the school's E-Wall, which highlights those who are employed, enrolled in further education or enlisted in military service. Of these students, 28 are enrolled in post-secondary education, 11 have entered the workforce, and one has committed to military service.

The guidance department has played an instrumental role in supporting students through various initiatives, including extensive one-on-one advising, FAFSA completion assistance, job shadowing opportunities, and career fairs. 

Seniors have met with the college and career advisor at least twice, with most students receiving over 20 individualized planning sessions covering topics such as college applications, scholarship submissions, job applications, and interview preparation.

Career exposure opportunities have been a focal point, with students participating in job shadowing experiences at local businesses, hospitals, law firms, and construction companies. Additionally, BHS has facilitated multiple campus visits, including trips to East Central College and Missouri State University, and has hosted military recruiters, college representatives, and potential employers throughout the school year.

Beyond college preparation, technical education remains a pathway for students. There were 23 new applications submitted for Rolla Technical Institute and Rolla Technical Center’s 2025-26 program. 

Furthermore, all juniors completed the ASVAB to assess vocational skills and interests.

As a testament to the school’s commitment to academic excellence, Bourbon High School is set to graduate its first two students from the Early College Academy in partnership with East Central College. 

Alyvia Helm and Raylee Bartle were the first two students selected when Bourbon joined into the partnership with ECC two years ago. 

Helm and Bartle will graduate not only with the high school diplomas, but also with their associate degrees. 

Helm plans on attending the University of Missouri in Columbia, where she plans to pursue a degree in biology and eventually move to medical school. Helm aspires to become a trauma surgeon.

Bartle, who plans to become a veterinarian, is still deciding between two schools.

Brylee Booker will be the next BHS student to attend the ECA.

Part of Ray’s responsibilities includes a 180-day follow-up on all graduates. In the November following graduation, Ray contacts each graduate to see if they are in college, employed, in the military or any other activity. 

All students who participated RTI/RTC or agricultural science must be accounted for and recorded as part of the school’s CORE data, which is used as part of the annual report.

According to the latest data, 18 percent of last year’s graduates are attending a two-year school and 27 percent are at a four-year school.

Around 38 percent are employed, 5 percent are in an apprenticeship and 3 percent are in the military.

The remaining students are either not working or were unable to be contacted.