At Lorain County JVS, we strive to empower students with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in their chosen careers while contributing to the economic vitality of our community. Our Student Spotlight Series highlights the journeys of students who exemplify this vision. This month, we feature Kirby Herrera, a dedicated Landscape and Greenhouse Management student who is turning her passion for plants and the environment into a promising career.

Kirby Herrera, a senior at Columbia High School, found her calling at LCJVS through the Landscape and Greenhouse Management Program. Starting as a freshman in the Career Connections Academy, Kirby explored multiple career paths before finding her true passion. Her journey is a testament to the power of self-discovery, hands-on learning, and perseverance.

“When I was in 8th grade, I was stressed not knowing what I was going to do for the rest of my life,” Kirby recalls with a laugh. “My mom suggested visiting the LCJVS open house, and I was excited to see too many career-learning opportunities. Even though I explored various labs, I always found my way back to Landscape and Greenhouse Management. It felt like something I could do for the rest of my life.”

At LCJVS, students gain more than technical skills; they acquire workforce readiness through real-world experiences, leadership development, and industry exposure. Kirby credits her program with teaching her essential leadership skills and providing a realistic view of the workforce.

Through her involvement in the National FFA Organization, Kirby has expanded her horizons while enhancing her resume. As the president of the LCJVS FFA chapter, she has attended national conventions and honed her ability to lead and collaborate.

“Being part of FFA has been an incredible experience,” Kirby says. “It’s not just about agriculture—it’s about building skills that will serve me in any career. I love being a part of the organization!”

 

Behind every successful student is a mentor who believes in their potential. For Kirby, that mentor is her instructor, Beth Berthold. Known affectionately as “Ms. B.,” her teaching style mirrors the expectations of a real-world employer, instilling professionalism and accountability in her students.

“Ms. B. holds us to high standards, and meeting those expectations feels amazing,” Kirby shares. “She does an incredible job of showing us what a career in this field looks like and preparing us for the future.”

Kirby plans to attend The Ohio State University to further her knowledge of landscape and greenhouse management. However, she recognizes that LCJVS has already equipped her with the skills to enter the workforce immediately.

“For this career, you don’t need to go to college,” Kirby explains. “But I love this field so much that I want to learn even more about it.”

For students considering LCJVS, Kirby offers this wisdom:

“A school like LCJVS might feel overwhelming because there are so many opportunities, but it’s not as scary as it seems. LCJVS is all about helping you find and follow your career path. It’s a place where you can advocate for yourself, discover your voice, and gain skills that set you apart.”

Kirby’s story is one of many that illustrate how LCJVS prepares students to meet the demands of today’s workforce while fostering a love for lifelong learning. By combining academic rigor with work-based learning training and industry partnerships, we not only help students like Kirby achieve their dreams but also contribute to the economic development of Lorain County and beyond.