The Islip School District again partnered this summer with the Suffolk County Department of Labor’s Summer Youth Employment Program, funded by Suffolk County. This year, six Islip High School students qualified for the summer work program, working alongside the school’s custodial staff for six weeks beginning on July 3.

Students assisted in moving furniture out of classrooms, cleaning classrooms, washing and waxing floors, and reading schematics to reassemble offices and classrooms. They also gained experience working outside with the custodians, doing an excellent job in repainting the parking lines, speed bumps and handicap access ramps.

The student workers met with Renee Clock, the Summer Youth Employment Program work-based learning coordinator, on a weekly basis to provide lessons encompassing life skills and world of work readiness. Some of the topics covered included positive personal traits, establishing life and employment goals, identifying realistic job possibilities, communication and teamwork skills, decision making, budgeting and employer expectations. At the end of the seven-week program, students experienced an exit interview and an employee evaluation.
 
“This is a great program and provides the students with the opportunity to not only earn money, but to budget their earnings and explore various career opportunities,” Clock said.

Date Added: 9/7/2023