However, a crucial skill they’ve been working on is one that many students will need in just the next couple of years: finding a job. Peel tasked them with visiting an area business and requesting a job application. In class, they worked on filling out their applications and creating resumes. And last Friday, after weeks of learning and planning, the students got to participate in mock job interviews.
Ms. Peel arranged to have several community members conduct the interviews so the kids could see what might be asked of them in that situation. After their interviews, the students received feedback about ways in which they excelled and areas they could improve on.
Student Sunseer Bland said the unit has given him tools to become successful in the future, such as working hard and always being prepared. He hopes these skills help him make into the NFL, or at least to his back-up plan: joining the police department. “This taught me that I have to get my mind right, and that if I work hard to do something, I can accomplish it,” Sunseer said.
The community members who volunteered their time for this project shared some words of wisdom with the students. Rod Spangler, National Director of Technology for American Fidelity Insurance, recommended making a positive first impression. “The first twenty to thirty seconds is so important. First impression is everything, so offer a strong hand shake and make eye contact.”
Ross Elementary’s Community Liason, Timothy Smith, encourages students to continually improve themselves. “(They should) continue to expand their knowledge, read as much as they can, learn as much as they can about people who are different than themselves…and always be on time.”
Sheila Thompkins, General Manager for Jason’s Deli, said there are many factors that trump work experience. “We look for personality, punctuality and a professional appearance. We also look for people who can work as part of a team.”
After the interviews, both John Bowman and Hannah Wilson, students in Peel’s class, said the most challenging question they answered regarded their own weaknesses. However, they both enjoyed the process and feel better about their interview skills. Bowman said, “I enjoyed it because I can learn from it, and when I go on interviews now, I’ll get it right.” Wilson agreed, saying, “Now I know what to say and what not to say.”
Ms. Peel’s lesson is a perfect example of the wonderful opportunities available to students in Topeka Public Schools. Thank you, Ms. Peel, for your hard work preparing for the day’s events, and to the community members who donated their time to our students! Dedicated teachers, engaged community members and future-focused students help make Topeka Public Schools a great place to be!
