Orange, CA - February 26, 2018 - Orange Unified WorkAbility 1 team members Heather Manning (Workability Teacher and program leader), Patty Lemke (Job Developer), Lana Palmer (Job Developer), and Bill Johnson (Job Coach) hosted a College and Career Resource Fair for 11th and 12th grade students at Orange High, Villa Park High, Canyon High, El Modena High, Richland High and Adult Transition Education. Students who have Individual Education Programs (IEPs) which specify resource support gained valuable information, agency resources and direct job hire referrals for immediate and upcoming summer employment. The goal was to connect students with IEPs to agencies, schools, supports and partner employers to build necessary skills and focus on future careers and entry level jobs as they prepare for life after high school.
Agencies and employee partners included Santiago Canyon College Associate Arts Programs including the Continuing Education Program for certificate pathways and adult programs, Santa Ana Beauty Academy, Youth Employment Development Agency through the State of California, Department of Rehabilitation, City of Orange Parks and Recreation, Orange County Conservation Corps and California Conservation Corps, Orange County Fair, Orange Unified CTE Staff, and Taller San Jose Non-Profit organization.
This year 80 students attended this event. Students were asked to dress for success to practice dressing for job interviews and to bring a resume. Special education teachers who are case carriers spent time with students in the weeks prior to the event hosting lunchtime workshops and time in classes discussing interview techniques, employment skills, and teaching resume writing.
Students entered the event and sat in a general assembly and heard from each agency or employment partner about the options and services that can be provided. Students then were able to go to the individual tables that had information and have one to one conversations with personnel.
The Special Education Administration is supporting direct efforts to increase College and Career readiness for the students they serve. Individual Education Programs outline activities that connect students with post-secondary positive outcomes. This is one of many events that directly supports the mission and vision of Orange Unified School District. We are proud of its inclusive practices for all students.
