MONROE — “When am I ever going to use this?” is often a phrase heard by students when times get tough in school. 

With the season of spring, comes the season of state-testing in school districts. While these tests are important, teachers still work to ensure students see the value of skills they are learning at school and how they apply in real-life. 

Fifth graders at Abraham Lincoln Elementary School are learning about different careers found in the Monroe community. 

They welcomed career visitors and first was a nurse practitioner from Monroe Clinic, Dr. Lauren Palmer. Dr. Palmer spoke with fifth graders about the path it takes to become a nurse practitioner and the duties that are included in her job. Students were able to ask questions and learn more about the medical field in general. Dr. Palmer also discussed how science, math and computer skills are necessary for her to do her job effectively.

While students in fifth grade are a few years from obtaining their careers, it’s important for them to begin to see how their studies now are affecting their futures. 

Within this unit, fifth graders will be learning about multiple careers that are based in Monroe, like Monroe Clinic and Monroe Truck and Equipment.