Go to Top of Page Introduction to Work Students with limited academic skills begin their introduction to work gaining experience at actual job sites in the community. Initially, time on the job may be limited. As students gain more experience at a variety of job sites, their time on the job can increase. Secondary students with more academic ability begin their introduction to the work environment through career education classes. A beginning class guides them to identify their interests, aptitudes, and values.
Students progress to job-training sites and on to paid employment, if appropriate.
While on a job, students apply basic academic skills, problem-solving skills, social skills, and personal management skills. At school, work-related concepts are embedded into their daily instruction. In both settings, students are taught how to effectively use technology, community resources, and other support systems to be successful employees. In each job experience, students' strengths and the areas needing improvement are assessed by the student and staff. These experiences help target future instructional needs and assist students to more narrowly define specific job interests and abilities.