When Skye was accepted into the Career Pathways program she had no idea what she wanted to do in the future. In her interview, she stated that she would probably drop out of high school and start to work full time. The counselors and others at Oak Ridge High School saw a talent and potential in Skye to not only graduate, but to continue on with her education and career goals.
Skye was given a mentor and placed in a paying job at the Children’s Museum of Oak Ridge – a non-profit museum that also has afterschool and summer programming. After a few weeks, the staff at the museum saw the potential Skye had to teach arts and crafts. She took this responsibility on full force and loved her time with the kids in her classes. Skye found a passion and ability to teach art and helped others to express themselves through art as well.
At the end of the 18 week program the museum kept Skye on as staff, she was on track to graduate and had a new vision. She earned her graduation bonus and told us that she wanted to pursue her degree in art education. Today, she is in college pursuing that dream.
This program takes 6-8 students a year from Oak Ridge High School. They are assigned a mentor who will invest in them and help them not only with job skills but also staying on track to graduate. The placements get additional (much needed support) and provide a work coach who teaches the student soft skills and workplace etiquette. This opportunity is funded by United Way in partnership with the Breakfast Rotary Club of Oak Ridge and the Altrusa Club of Oak Ridge along with other businesses and individuals.
We are always in need of mentors and financial support. If you are interested, please contact us!