When School Age Programs Coordinator Jarrod Shive was getting his bachelor’s degree from WKU, he planned on teaching social studies to middle-grade students. He didn’t know it then, but taking a part-time job at Community Education would change his plans.
“While taking classes, I worked part-time at Community Education in the before and after school programs. After I graduated in 2013, I was hired as an intern to help in the Community Education office. In March 2014, I received a full-time position. I was and still am so thankful this opportunity was presented to me. I love being able to interact with students and families in this capacity. The memories I’ve created over the years will last a lifetime.”
Shive explains that working at Community Education prepared him for the rest of his career.
“I tell our part-time staff that working in a before or after-school program at Community Education can help prepare you for any field you may go into, not just education. The number of soft skills you learn working with students and families is invaluable. This was especially true for me. I am so grateful for the time I spent in the before and after-school programs while in college. I believe this time adequately equipped me with skills that I use daily.”
When asked what he is proudest of accomplishing at Community Education, Shive had to try hard to narrow it down to one thing. “The broad answer would be hiring and overseeing the part-time staff members to work in our programs. We have an awesome staff base that makes this possible! So many working families depend on our programs to keep their students in a safe and enriching environment during out-of-school time.”
Shive’s job is not without challenges, however.
“During the pandemic, there were a lot of unknowns which was quite unsettling. We had some regulation and staffing hurdles, as did almost everyone. That period proved to be quite challenging. But we rallied together and weathered the storm. We are in a much better spot than we were this time last year, and we hope that trend continues!”
Originally from Tompkinsville, Shive and his family moved to Bowling Green when he was in middle school. Shive and his wife, Kristi, have a son, Paxton, who is 5. “Being a dad has been the most rewarding and fun part of my life! He keeps us very busy as we’re always looking for a new adventure.”
In his spare time, Shive loves being outdoors, hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family and church family.