Logan Jones (left) and Addison Bayouth add food prep skills to their resume as they work at United Supermarket on S. 14 Street.
Wylie High’s 18 Plus/Occupational & Career Preparation program is seeking to add a few more businesses or organizations to its repertoire for on-the-job training for its students. Casi Watson, the functional academic teacher who facilitates this program, said the opportunities allow her students to practice life skills needed in both home and work environments.
“We practice life skills, job skills, general skills, or anything that we can do that would lend itself to learning and practicing daily living situations,” said Watson. “Watching these students learn new skills and adapt to different environments has been nothing short of amazing. Their determination and eagerness to be involved has led them to thrive in this program.”
Partnering businesses the students work at weekly include The Shed, YMCA of Abilene, United Supermarket and AYSA. An hour-long visit allows the students to complete a wide range of simple tasks that help each business have a successful day. Watson said tasks range from filling to-go barbeque sauce cups and setting tables to cleaning windows to packaging and labeling cookies.
“We are so thankful for our community partners that have opened their businesses to us and poured into our students. These opportunities are priceless and vital for our students as they work towards transitioning into the workforce.”
If you are interested in partnering with this program, please contact Watson at casi.watson@wyliebulldogs.org.