“At first, I was really scared of talking to people. But now, ever since I got to go there, I’ve been feeling more confident about myself,” said Vianca Godinez. “I get to learn how to take care of myself and take care of others.”
Former student Vianca said the LODI Career Connections Program introduced her to new learning experiences. She also met new friends who taught her a lot about herself. She graduated from high school in June and now works at T% Coffee + Tea.
“I can see now that I have a lot of potential in me,” she said.
Lodi Career Connections is a partnership between the Department, Lodi Unified School District, Valley Mountain Regional Center, and the Department of Rehabilitation.
Getting ready for life after high school can feel overwhelming. Families of students with intellectual and developmental disabilities can work with several government agencies to find the right supports. Lodi Unified School District’s Career Connections program brings these partners together, making the transition to employment and adult life easier. Families don’t have to navigate the process alone.
Through classroom instruction and real-world work experience, special education students build workplace and life skills while they’re still in high school.
“Everyone deserves the right to be independent,” said Michael Luna, the Department’s Work Services Branch Chief. “And a huge factor in being independent is being able to support yourself.”
Watch the video to learn more about Lodi Career Connections.
Learn more about Lodi Career Connections on the Special Education & Support Services page of the Lodi Unified School District’s website.