With school back in session, students are focused on one thing: after school.

What is going on when you’re not sitting behind a desk? What is keeping you going when you’re not doing homework?

It isn’t just kids looking for downtime. Oh, sure, there are sign-ups for Boy Scouts and karate class and dance lessons and more going on right now among the younger than 18 set, but they aren’t the only ones back in class.

South Hills School of Business and Technology is planning an event for Monday night that will serve the dual purpose of student appreciation and marketing the school’s opportunities to would-be enrollees. “South Hills LIVE!” will take place at Retro Eatery on Pine Street beginning at 6:30 p.m.

The party includes dinner and an eclectic blend of live music, featuring everything from early sets of folk (Jim Colbert) and Americana (Sterling Moon) to pop acoustic (Fancy Singer) to punk (Wait for It) and alternative (The Company You Keep) later on. South Hills director Melissa Brennan said the point is to show that just because the school is a small branch doesn’t mean there isn’t a campus culture with a lot to offer.

The event is open to high school students making plans for after graduation, people looking to change careers and those interested in exploring a degree close to home.

Tickets are free but available on a limited basis. Call the school at 342-7427 to reserve a spot.

Brennan says the party also leads up to the school’s upcoming career day Oct. 3. Prospective students can get a feel for the school atmosphere, then get more specifics next month on the variety of programs, degrees and fields, and how it all might come together in a whole new job direction.

Lori Falce writes weekly about the Rush Township/Philipsburg area. Send comments to lorifalce@gmail.com.