Work Readiness Program

After High School, Then What?

The Career Center at the California School for the Deaf, Fremont has established a new Work Readiness Program (WRP). This program serves our students after their senior year of high school and is for those who have not yet passed the California High School Exit Exam (CAHSEE) requirement. The WRP was established for two main reasons: (1) to prevent deaf students leaving high school without a high school diploma; and (2) to assist deaf students with transition skills.

During senior year, students work with Rona Hunt, Senior Career Counselor, and Amy Eshelman, Work Readiness Program Coordinator, as well as with their families and the Department of Rehabilitation to choose from one of three options: a local community college, a vocational/training program, or direct employment.  Students may also go to college part-time and work part-time. Students have the opportunity to volunteer with local organizations: Deaf service agencies, senior citizen groups, food banks and local shelters.

WRP students have the option of living on-campus as a part of our residential program or living locally. Students spend all day either at community college or work; they are not a part of the regular high school program. Currently, we have students taking community college classes in English, math, biology, community education, culinary arts and construction.  Working off-campus in a field of their interest is another option; we have students working in a senior citizen assisted living facility, at a local Deaf service organization and in a preschool serving Deaf and hearing children.

Monday through Thursday evenings, WRP students attend English and math classes designed to assist them in passing the CAHSEE. Unlike CAHSEE prep courses, these classes are unique to CSD: they are geared specifically towards 18 to 21 year old Deaf students. The instructors for these courses communicate directly with students in ASL, are very familiar with the needs of our students and the content of the CAHSEE and strategies for taking the test.  WRP students take the CAHSEE at CSD. These elements make the courses of great value to our students.

WRP students also have the opportunity to move on with their transition to adult life while receiving intensive support from the CSDF Career Center. Assistance with problem solving, making and changing career plans, the use of public transportation, budgeting, self-advocacy and partnering with the Department of Rehabilitation and other agencies are just a few of the services we offer. Throughout the year, workshops are offered that emphasize taking adult responsibility, trouble prevention and life skills.

Watch the Career Center news for spotlights on our WRP stars this year!

For more information please contact Amy Eshelman, Work Readiness Program Coordinator, aeshelman@csdf-cde.ca.gov, 510-794-3745 or visit the CSDF Web site at http://www.csdeagles.com/