When the school closures and work from home orders came into effect the SummerWorks team pivoted to virtual outreach and enrollment, connecting with school teams and families across Clark and Cowlitz counties to enroll 64 students in the virtual SummerWorks Professional Development class. Instruction was delivered live and included guest speakers, informational interviews with employers, and virtual job shadows.
Upon completion of the class, 24 students were placed in virtual internships. Several students interned in ESD 112 programs that included support to Community Prevention Coordinators, the SW WA Career Connected Learning Network and ESD-U. SummerWorks students performed a wide range of tasks including assisting with video conference moderation, creating instructional videos, writing social media copy, and managing data.
The ESD-U program hosted Daniel in a summer internship where he helped to proctor online classes. Alissa Jolly shared that “working with Daniel was a wonderful experience! He was very knowledgeable, professional, communicative and easy to work with. I am definitely interested in utilizing interns from the SummerWorks program in the future!”
When asked about his experience, Daniel appreciated all the new skills he gained through the program. Daniel wanted “to thank Nathan and Becky from SummerWorks for all that I have learned including new skills and abilities from applying for a job to communicating with co-workers at my place of work… I want to thank them for all of their support and reliability through this new stage in my life.” While proctoring classes, Daniel “found some topics quite interesting and eye-opening not only what educators go through, but also what the students go through. I really enjoyed working with SummerWorks and the ESD and I am thankful for all that I have learned.”
About SummerWorks
The SummerWorks program engages with current students who either have an Individualized Education Plan or a 504 plan, and are ages 16-21, in Clark, Cowlitz and Wahkiakum Counties. Participants take part in a 40-hour work readiness class and a 100 hour virtual internship.
If you are interested in SummerWorks or in hosting a SummerWorks student for their work experience, please contact Christine Katon or Becky Mohagen.
ESD 112 equalizes educational opportunities for learning communities through innovative partnerships, responsive leadership, and exceptional programs.