Marist High School Expands Student Services with New Career Education Coordinator
New role helps students explore career pathways and prepare for life after high school
CHICAGO – Marist High School has expanded its Student Services Department for the 2026-2027 school year with the addition of a Career Education Coordinator within the school’s College and Career Center.
Jan Maratea, an experienced member of the Marist faculty, has taken on the new role. Maratea earned her bachelor’s degree from Saint Xavier University and her master’s degree from Catholic Theological Union. She also holds an Academic Life Coach certification, bringing additional expertise in helping students recognize their strengths, establish goals and plan confidently for the future.
The new position is designed to help students better understand their interests and abilities, explore the many opportunities available after high school and make informed decisions about their next steps. Students will receive guidance on a wide range of pathways, including college, skilled trades, apprenticeships, military service, professional certifications, entrepreneurship and direct entry into the workforce.
“Career education is not about telling students what they should do. It is about helping them discover what is possible,” Maratea said. “By introducing students to different industries, educational opportunities and career pathways, we can help them develop the confidence and direction they need to take their next step after Marist.”
A key component of the program is Xello, Marist’s career education platform. Through classroom lessons and individual guidance, students will use Xello to identify their interests and strengths, explore potential careers, research education and training requirements and begin developing personalized plans for life after high school.
Maratea will also lead Marist’s Career Pathfinders Speaker Series, which brings alumni and professionals from a variety of industries to campus. Students have the opportunity to hear firsthand career experiences, ask questions and participate in hands-on activities and demonstrations.
The series recently welcomed its first guest, Jeff Sankey ’93, veterinarian and owner of Palos Animal Hospital, who shared insights into veterinary medicine and business ownership. Additional Career Pathfinders programs are already planned for this semester in fields including physical therapy, firefighting and emergency medical services, nursing, federal law enforcement with the FBI and local law enforcement with the Chicago Police Department.
Career-focused field trips and experiences will further connect students with the professional world. Planned opportunities may include visits to trade unions, apprenticeship programs, businesses, colleges and community organizations, exposing students to pathways they may not otherwise encounter.
Additional classroom programming will help students connect their education at Marist with real-world careers. Lessons and activities will address topics such as personal strengths, career research, education and training requirements, workplace skills and planning for life after graduation.
Through partnerships with alumni, businesses, professionals, trade unions, colleges and community organizations, Marist also plans to expand its career fairs, professional panels, demonstrations and other career exploration opportunities.
The addition of a Career Education Coordinator reflects Marist’s continued commitment to preparing students for personal success. Through individualized guidance, technology, classroom experiences and meaningful connections with professionals, the program will help students understand the possibilities available to them and confidently plan for their futures.
