Everett High School students with (back row, center) Andy Bobbitt, Square One Mall Operations
Director, and Steven Sayers, Square One Mall General Manager.
The Square One Mall and Shore Educational Collaborative hosted Job Shadow Day 2014 on Feb. 3 to encourage students with disabilities to explore the workforce after graduation. Students, ages 14-22, were given a behind the scenes tour of businesses throughout the Square One Mall. From management and guest services, to health care and retail, students learned what is involved in running a business.
“The Collaborative Initiative tries to provide more transitional opportunities for kids moving into adulthood,” says Kathy Meagher, Psy. D., of Shore Educational Collaborative. “All the kids involved have intellectual disabilities, cognitive impairments, or physical disabilities.”
Students from Everett High School, Revere High School, Saugus High School, and Chelsea High School participated in the program that focuses on identifying student’s interests, and understanding the skills and knowledge important for a successful future.
“We want to make sure they’re exposed to a number of different things that let them know what’s out there after they graduate,” Meagher says. “This is our fourth year doing it. It’s been terrific because there has been a lot of support from the schools, administration, as well as the community.”