By CATHERINE LEGG / Community Columnist

Friday, April 26, was an exciting day at Montevallo Middle School.

All of the students had looked forward to the annual Career and Health Fair, and they were not disappointed. During the morning hours, the emphasis was on planning for a career and the afternoon was spent participating in health and fitness activities.

“We wanted to give the students an opportunity to explore career options so that they can make good choices for success,” MMS Principal Sheila Lewis said. “The school system focuses on college and career readiness.”

From 8 a.m. until noon, the students rotated to different classrooms where area professionals told them about their own careers. A wide variety of more than 25 occupations were represented, including banking, accounting, military, veterinary medicine, fire fighting, auto repair, teaching, construction, nursing, video production and forestry.

Among the afternoon health fair activities were archery, baseball, basketball, golf, kickball, martial arts and obstacle course challenges. Others included volleyball, tennis, track, soccer, boot camp, weight training, yoga and Zumba. Of course, the students had a wonderful time.

“This was the best fair we’ve ever had,” Lewis said. “There were very engaging speakers in the morning and with the help of UM students our students were able to participate in a variety of athletic events in the afternoon. The day went smoothly because Cheryl Fenn and Sheila Jett had everything so well organized.”

Jett agreed that this was the best, and she thought it was because the kids got to choose their sessions. She said there were many physical activities for the kids to have fun with and learn about health and fitness. She also expressed appreciation to the UM kinesiology and athletic programs and to UM’s athletic directors.

For more information about Montevallo Middle School, visit Shelbyed.k12.aus/schools/mms.

Catherine Legg can be reached by email at clegg2@bellsouth.net.