October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, a time to recognize the valuable contributions of workers with disabilities and highlight the importance of creating inclusive workplaces. At Valley Park School District, students are gaining hands-on experiences that help them develop essential job skills, build confidence and prepare for life beyond graduation.

Valley Park Middle School and High School offer several programs that provide students with meaningful opportunities to explore workplace responsibilities and develop skills for future employment.

One of the newest additions is the Room Service Cart, a student-operated business that gives students experience in every step of the process. From managing inventory and placing orders to packaging products and making deliveries, students take ownership of daily operations while strengthening their communication, problem-solving and teamwork skills.

Beyond the classroom, Valley Park High School students are putting their skills to work in the community. Through a partnership with a local retirement community, students gain real-world experience completing tasks in the café, including rolling silverware, stocking supplies and clearing tables. With appropriate support, students work toward greater independence by following checklists and completing assigned responsibilities.

These experiences complement the long-standing Hawk's Café, where students serve coffee, tea and snacks to the Valley Park school community while practicing customer service and workplace skills.

Together, these programs do more than prepare students for employment. They encourage independence, build confidence and create opportunities for students to discover their strengths and abilities.

As we recognize National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we celebrate the hard work and accomplishments of our students and the educators and community partners who help make these experiences possible.

At Valley Park, limitless learning means creating opportunities for every student to grow, contribute and succeed.

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