What’s it like working at Wal-Mart…or Lowes…or doing a community service project for an organization like Scenic Hudson?
These are just a couple of the questions representatives from local companies routinely get when they come to speak to Jim Rahm’s Ulster BOCES students in the Special Education at Tillson program.
“We began this program last September with the idea of giving our students an in-depth look at what the working world was like,” Rahm explained. “The idea wasn’t so much about recruiting workers, but for the students to learn what these companies do and what is expected of their employees.”
Besides Wal-Mart and Lowes, companies who have sent representatives to speak to the students have included Adams Fairacre Farms, Ames, Stewart International Airport, and Scenic Hudson.
With groups like Scenic Hudson, the students also learn more about the community service opportunities that they can participate in. Rahm explained that he is always looking for projects and experiences for the students that offer new learning opportunities, help to stretch their individual horizons, and stimulate their personal growth.
“Last year we cleaned up George Freer Park in Port Ewen as part of the annual Scenic Hudson’s Great River Sweep,” said Rahm.
“We’ve also worked with Scenic Hudson on other projects. Recently, we were up on Schaupaneak Peak Ridge with them where we took a nature hike and learned about being a volunteer park guide.”
Rahm’s students have also been to Stewart International Airport where they were given a tour of the facility.
“It was a great life-skills experience for them,” said Rahm. “Many of them had never been to an airport before, and it was great for them to be able to have the experience. We were given a tour of the entire airport, including being out with the baggage handlers on the runway. They really got a lot out of the whole trip.”
On January 22nd the students will be having another special guest speaker. Sgt. Mitchell Lowe from the United States Army will be coming to talk to the students about the U.S. military and its role in the world today.
“This a great way for students to get a civics lesson and to learn a lot more about world events,” said Rahm.
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