Principal Larry Bentz's career awareness initiatives help to provide focus and relevance to schooling at Thurston High School in Springfield. In his first year at the school, Mr. Bentz facilitated the reorganization of the curriculum into six career paths. Incoming students select one of these paths, specify post-high school goals, and receive guidance in charting a plan to reach those goals. He supervises Thurston's Career Center, which provides students with a wide range of opportunities to learn about various professions, explore work environments and develop job skills through mentorship and volunteer positions. As the principal of a school rocked by a tragic shooting that killed two students and injured eight others, Mr. Bentz is often called upon to share his experiences and insights on school safety.
1975 Linfield College, B.A.
