Nearly 200 Dawson County fifth-grade students were treated to demonstrations of various professions from around the area.

The eighth annual Dawson County 5th Grade Career Fair was held April 25 at Rock Creek Park. The fair is done through a partnership with the park and the four county elementary schools.

"Our main goal at the elementary level regarding career education is to provide awareness of the different career fields available," said Lance Stiffler, Robinson Elementary counselor. "We also discussed the importance of good work ethic, along with basic character traits that employers are looking for in prospective employees."

It is the school system's goal that, by fifth grade, the students have reinforced the connection between academics and the working world.

"We help the students develop a deeper understanding of themselves, such as interests and strengths, and how they can use that knowledge to make good career choices in the future."