As the Work Experience Coordinator at Free State High School, I am excited to support students in their goals toward competitive employment.  Going into my seventh year at Free State High School as the Work Experience Coordinator, I focus on helping students improve their:  (1) social skills, (2) work skills, and (3) productive rate of work.  I offer two courses to enhance these areas for students:  Career Development & Transition and Work Experience.

Within Career Development & Transition, students will identify and explore a variety of community and career resources.  Concepts discussed throughout this course will also be put into practice within the community.  For instance, when students learn about picking up an application from an employer, they will also be expected to practice these skills during class and community outings.  Students will receive opportunities to explore different career paths, including necessary skills for successful employment and growth.

Within Work Experience, students apply and enhance work skills and social skills in a work setting with the support of a job coach.  Each student is assessed through work evaluations, focusing on: (1) Appearance, (2) Behaviors, (3) Job Performance, (4) Communication, and (5) Independence.  A daily emphasis will be placed on attendance, attitude, social skills, and self-advocacy.  Students will be responsible for managing appropriate behavior and motivation while volunteering in a work setting.

If you have any questions regarding these courses, please give me a contact me.

Thank you,

Patrick Dipman

pdipman@usd497.org

785-330-2750