This school year has been different to say the least. It has been a big trial and error period not only for the teachers but for the students as well. Normally the Pre-ETS program is offered in the classrooms where we are able to build relationships with our students. Unfortunately, this year due to COVID we have had to provide the Pre-ETS services virtually. Usually when we are in the classrooms we are able to have more personable conversations and hands-on activities to help the students be better prepared for their next steps after high school. However, this year we have had to think outside of the box and become more creative with how we deliver our services. So we joined in with the rest of the world having Google Meets as our classroom and our assignments became virtual. The students were introduced to the Virtual Job Shadow website where they were able to watch videos and submit weekly assignments.
Our students not only explored various careers that interested them, but also learned how to create short-term and long-term goals that will enable them to have an opportunity to find a pathway that may allow them to reach their dream job! We focused on local in-demand jobs that our community depends on.
Unfortunately, due to Covid-19, we were not able to explore careers at various jobsites, however; students explored different careers through our virtual activities and were able to learn more about careers they were curious and excited about! Our class also engaged in essential interviewing skills with our NCWorks Professional Development team. This was a wonderful learning experience for our students as they were comfortable with being introduced with what an interview experience is about and what they need to work on. Students also learned how to make the most out of networking for employment opportunities, including elevator pitch and job fairs. Our class also learned how valuable workplace skills and transferable skills are and how to include them on job applications and resumes while also being able to discuss them during interviewing.
Also, our class were provided information on how to search and apply for scholarships and grants as well as how to complete admission applications. Students learned how to be their on advocate and the importance of requesting services, resources and accommodations that allow them the opportunity to thrive! Our students learned about resources within their community and how we at NCWorks strive to build our community so everyone benefits.
We received positive feedback from our students and teachers throughout the semester as well as the end of the semester. We believe the students as well as the staff have learned a lot this year. It has taught us to think outside of the box, encourage teamwork, and most of all it has strengthened our technology skills. We have heard several students that stated to us that they felt more confident with job searches, resume writing, interviewing skills and networking after learning about them in our classes. We believe that every student benefits from being prepared for skills that last a lifetime!
