School-to-Career Services

For students who wish to pursue vocational studies, WRSD offers a comprehensive transitional program, School-to-Career Services, that begins with a job skills class and prevocational training at age 14. Students ages 16-22 have the opportunity to engage in formal off-campus work-study internships throughout the community.

School-to-Career Services is also offered to students at our Partnership Campus in East Longmeadow High School. Willie Ross School juniors and seniors at East Longmeadow High School who have completed most of their credits and want to complete their education in five years, instead of four, can participate in the School-to-Career Services program by doing half-day work-study internships.  This extra year provides the Partnership Campus students the opportunity to round off their Willie Ross School education with practical skills and experience that, upon graduation, make them valuable candidates to prospective employers.

WRSD recognizes the value of preparing students for lives within the community
and aims to provide a successful transition from academic to professional life.

How it Works

Students ages 14–22 years of age participate in a weekly job skills class taught by our School-to-Career Coordinator and a vocational counselor. This class provides students with the chance to:

• Develop independent living skills
• Identify and explore career interests
• Research necessary skills for desired jobs
• Develop an online career profile
• Learn from guest speakers about educational, vocational and career planning and transition
• Complete a yearly transition checklist