There were plenty of smiling faces at the Life Skills Transition Program’s annual celebration.
Gilmer High School recognized the students in the program Wednesday, May 15, at the Larry Walker Education Center. Students, families, educators, administrators and ever-valuable community partners and businesses gathered for the event.
This year’s super seniors included Isaiah Patterson, Daniel Vicente and Molly Johnson.
The remaining 10 students in the program were also recognized, which is under the direction of special education teachers Jessica Hensley and Taylor Johnstone. The program consists of multiple tiers that incorporate academic and work-based learning.
Johnstone works with students in the classroom. Hensley spends the majority of her day in the field assisting businesses where students gain and hone valuable interpersonal skills. Drew Gaddy runs the program’s adaptive physical education.
Along with their community partners, the program aids in vocational and life skills training. Students gain real-world experiences with the goal of a smooth transition from high school to independent living and employment opportunities.
In total, the program had 11 business partners for the 2023-24 school year.
“We want to make sure these kids are able to go out and be prepared as best they can to step into a position at whatever industry they choose,” Johnstone said.
Once students in the program reach a certain age, they are eligible to be hired at the central office. Current students also work shifts with school custodial staffs and in kitchens.
“This group of young adults are a joy to be around, and that’s an understatement,” said nutrition director Patricia Partin, who has observed students’ skills in the kitchen. “They are always so honest and true and willing to help. They always want to do their very best and please others. They’re so compassionate and take pride in their work.
“Once a friend, always a friend. My buddy (Jacob Powell) who (has worked) at Food Lion (for a year since graduating last May), every time I see him, he talks to me and always has a good day. We can always learn from these beautiful people, and I do every day.”
In its inaugural year in 2021, there were seven students in the Life Transitions program and nine businesses and community partners participated. Eleven students took part in the program in 2022, and seven met graduation requirements. Eight students were in the program last year, and in conjunction with the Gilmer College and Career Academy’s work-based learning, Patterson gained employment at Pilgrim’s Pride. A year later, Patterson has positioned himself to attain certification to operate heavy equipment.
“He is going to be the first student from GHS to attend Roosevelt Warm Springs. His pathway is heavy machinery operator, and he’ll be doing an 18-week program there,” Hensley said. “Once he finishes, he will be certified to operate heavy equipment. They have amazing simulators there and they will also certify him in OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration). I am beyond proud of him.”
Hensley expressed gratitude to the business partners for their vital support in assisting students’ growth.
“We appreciate these businesses working with our kids. Each and every one of them plays a vital part in teaching them different job and social skills. They look forward to each day because it’s something different. We’re able to then transition them into jobs.
“All of the businesses talk about how super our kids are. These kids work hard every day. There are many different things they can do throughout the community to be successful and give back. That’s what we’re all about: giving back to the community and helping our kids become a successful citizen.”