This year at Pacific Grove High, some changes have been made to our college and career center located in the library. Previously it was run by Ms. Light up until her retirement last year, and now Mr. Leatham has taken over the position. Let’s get to know more about him!
For some background information on Mr. Leatham: he graduated as salutatorian from PGHS, then went on to attend college in Washington and Massachusetts. He worked in other career fields prior to education, then went on to teach at CSUMB for nine years. For the past two years, he has worked as our “Super-sub” here at PGHS, likely having taught many of you! His subbing for a variety of teachers and subjects helped him get reacquainted with the campus and students here in preparation for his current role. Along with education, Mr. Leatham is a creative writer as well, having published his works in over eighty journals and anthologies. In tandem with this, he hosts a monthly poetry reading series that is free for everyone at the local PG library. Along with being a writer, he is a music enthusiast, having played all throughout high school, getting to perform at jazz festivals across Europe. He still loves listening to music on both vinyls and over the library sound system, as well as getting Mr. Morrison with new puns in the library.
As previously mentioned, he is the new College and Career Coordinator, and works to help every student discover the best route for their future goals. Whether it be career, college, or another future goal; he is here to help. Mr. Leatham is happy to talk about anything related to college applications, resumes, or how to improve your search for colleges and career paths. He also is the coordinator for the Dual Enrollment and AP paths at the school. A part of his job he loves is helping students know what they want to do in his life, as it is a stressful, complex journey. A part of his job that he finds satisfying is whenever he can help a student discover new opportunities, like how to make community service more fun and engaging, how to decide on a major someone might not know about, or how to find a career that you love. In his words, “Every single Breaker has a story, and every single Breaker deserves success. It’s my job, and my privilege, to help you build a bridge between your experiences and your dreams.”
As for future events and programs Mr. Leatham is helping run, he is looking forward to the College and Career Fair that will be held on Wednesday, October 30. This is one of the biggest events for students looking to invest and prepare for their future. The event will be from 10 AM – 1 PM on Wednesday, from 4th to 6th period, for any students that are interested. There are representatives from UCs, CSUs, private universities, community colleges, businesses, trade schools, and military branches. In addition to this large event for colleges, there are reps on campus every week this October, and there is more info on the school’s website. Stop in to talk with Mr. Leatham if you ever need help with all things future-related, and make sure to come into the college and career opportunities being hosted this month!
