EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING SPECIALISTS

SUSAN WINTERS

JENNIFER BOWMAN

The Work Discovery program, run by the Westmoreland Intermediate Unit #7, was started in 2004.  The program assists students 16 to 21 years old, enrolled in Life Skills or Emotional Support classes, to experience the work environment in a community-based training program. 

The program teaches marketable work and social skills needed to acquire and maintain employment upon graduation.  The focus is on teamwork, job readiness, job retention skills, cooperation, conflict resolution, career exploration, career portfolio, and work responsibilities.  Students train in community settings in retail support, building maintenance, janitorial, housekeeping, and hotel services support. 

During the  final year of school, assistance is given to secure and maintain paid employment in their home community.  This process eases the transition from school to work through coaching, behavioral support and mobility training.