This week, we’re showing our #CPSDPride by giving a #SuperSchoolShoutout to Alfaretta Transition Program educator Rebecca Thornton and participant Savannah Wilson.
This is Rebecca’s second year in the Transition Program after working at Lakes as a resource teacher. “Through my stepson’s journey, I’ve experienced different programs and have a vision of how we can support these participants,” she said. “I want them to leave with a job they enjoy.”
Before sending participants to job sites to get hands-on experience as working professionals, Rebecca works with them to instill vital skills, such as filling out paperwork, following the hiring process and navigating transportation. “I also help them with life events and encourage their critical thinking skills,” she said.
Rebecca is a proud advocate and has dedicated much of her life to supporting those with disabilities. “Approximately 85% of people with a significant disability are unemployed or underemployed most of their life, and it’s my goal to prevent that from happening,” she said.
Savannah enjoys participating in the Transition Program and is grateful for the support of her educators. “They have helped me a lot because when I graduated from Lakes, I was a little lost needed a place to help me make a plan,” she said.
After all her hard work, Savannah has gotten a job with Skookum Contract Services as a custodian. “It’s good work, and I like that I get to move throughout the day,” she said. “I like the people I’m working with, but I also love being here at Lakes with my awesome teachers.”
Savannah is looking forward to learning how to count money so she can try being a cashier. She is also creative and expresses herself through nail art, drawing and fashion. When she is older, she wants to continue working and hopes to start a family. “I want a job where I can still spend time with my kids,” she said. “Maybe I can become a paraeducator.”
Go Alfaretta!