District 230 thanks local businesses working with student interns

Stocking shelves, checking expiration dates, shredding, serving and pricing are just a few of the responsibilities approximately 35 students across District 230’s three high schools take on every day in the community. Students in the Training Employment Program are dispersed to 13 local businesses for approximately two hours each day. Program participants receive hands-on learning and work experience that help prepare them for full time employment.

Transition Specialist Mary Evelyn Schaffer said, “Thank you to our business partners for opening their doors and for seeing the value in our students and their abilities.”
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2022, about 21 percent of people with a disability in the U.S. were employed.

At District 230, the Student Services Department provides support to assist students in addressing their individual needs to achieve independence as responsible citizens to the fullest extent possible.

Training at a Walgreens, Stagg senior Noor Abusharkh says, “I help stock shelves, check expirations dates and answer customer questions. I like the customers and the staff, and my boss is really nice to me. I hope to get a permanent paid position there.”

The program doesn’t just start and stop with students and their businesses. The program also relies on the vocational coordinator, job coaches and paraprofessionals who foster the business relationships. Schaffer added, “Program staff help form the bond between the employer and student and help students on their way to successful employment.”

Businesses participating in the District 230 Training Employment Program include: Four local Walgreens, All Saints Lutheran Church, Clean Eatz, Ted's Greenhouse, Lou Malnati's, Going, Going, Gone, Taylors Candy, Strange Brew Cafe and Apparel Redefined.