Summer Work Program
In coordination with the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services, every year Easterseals of the Birmingham Area put on a eight-week Summer Work Program where high school juniors and seniors are placed in entry-level positions around the area to provide them with a safe and valuable work experience. The students will be exposed to the entire hiring process through an intake and interview done by ESBA Staff Members. Utilizing relationships built with business and organizations students can be placed in a wide variety of positions from clerical to janitorial to general labor jobs. Students are monitored by Easterseals Employment Staff weekly to provide assistance and guidance as needed. For more information on the Summer Program please reach out to your ADRS Counselor or email Jodi Moates at jmoates@eastersealsbham.org.
Virtual Reality Career Exploration Program
Many students are already familiar with using virtual reality technology for entertainment purposes. This class will utilize that same technology to increase student awareness of available career paths and job opportunities following high school. The VR headsets used in the class will allow students to get a sense of performing the tasks required in various jobs. Students will choose from a list of careers to experience individually via the headsets. Instructors will also discuss job qualifications and the education required for those fields.
Transition Virtual Career Exploration 1.0 Syllabus
Transition Virtual Career Exploration 2.0 Syllabus
Self Advocacy
This class is for students who would benefit from skills for communicating needs, working with others, and understanding personal worth and importance. Instructors utilize class handouts, PowerPoint, and experiential exercises to teach new concepts and refresh old ideas. Students will leave with healthy lifestyle skills and confidence in speaking up for themselves.
Transition Services
Easterseals is still offering great training options for your students! It is no surprise that COVID-19 has changed the world around us in more ways than one. A major change we have seen is in our education system. According to census.gov, nearly 93% of families have been subject to some type of distance learning. At Easterseals, we feel strongly that despite these uncertain times students still need quality instruction in the necessary skills for employment. That is why we have committed to continue offering a wide selection of classes for students in the Birmingham area!!
All training will be conducted in accordance with ADRS and local school policies. Scheduling will be completed in collaboration with ADRS and School Staff. Delivery options include:
- Face-to-Face Instruction – Easterseals staff instructors will go to schools for service. Social distancing and appropriate protective gear will be implemented.
- ZOOM and/or WEBX – Instructors can work with school staff to set up ZOOM meetings with students in a class or individual setting. WEB X instruction is also available if needed!
- Google Hangout – Instructors can send out email invitations and consumers can join the room.
For more information on our transition services please reach out to your ADRS Vocational Counselor or email us at jmoates@eastersealsbham.org.
Financial Literacy
Students will learn important skills on how to make better decisions with money.
The Class will gain knowledge in important concepts to financial security, such as savings, debt, budgeting, insurance and investments.
Students will be encouraged to participate in each class session in order that they may receive the full benefit of what is being offered to attain a brighter and secure future.
Each class, for a total of 10 sessions, will represent life changes in how to make a better choices now, as well as choices later in life for a more productive lifestyle.
Job Readiness
Job Readiness Class is similar to Smart Work Ethics but has a decided focus on practical skills for getting a job. This class is administered by utilizing PowerPoint presentations, Handouts, and exams. Instructors conduct mock interviews with students and provide feedback to help improve communication and interview skills. Topics include:
- Interview Skills
- Interpersonal Development
- Time Management
- Proper Work Attire
- Self Care and Personal Hygiene
- Conflict Resolution
- Managing Emotions
View the full syllabus HERE.
Accessing Transportation
In this class, students will learn how to use various modes of transportation to get to work or school. Easterseals instructors will work with students to decide what their future transportation needs may be as well as how transportation applies to them now. This in-depth course not only shows students how to apply for public transportation or how to set a maintenance schedule for your car but also safety precautions like knowing the person picking you up is your ride, and not an imposter. Topics will include:
- Utilizing Technology to find locations in the workplace or on campus
- Using Public Transportation
- Using Taxi Services and Rideshares such as Uber or Lyft
- Introduction To Driving Your Own Vehicle
View the full syllabus HERE.
Independent Living Skills
This class is for students who would benefit from additional emphasis on life skills such as hygiene, self-advocacy, managing emotions, and personal boundaries. Instructors utilize class handouts, powerpoints, and experiential exercises to teach new concepts and refresh old ideas. Students will leave will healthy lifestyle skills and feeling more confident. Topics Include:
- Introductions And First Impressions In School And The Workplace
- Appropriate Clothing For The Season
- Sleep And Dieting Habits
- Understanding Your Support System
- ‘I Statements’
- Bank Accounts And How To Use A Check
- Budget Basics
- Time Management Strategies
- Good Decision Making and Conflict Resolution
View the full syllabus HERE.
Social Skills
More than ever, in today’s workplace communication, is essential for success. Utilizing some of the same information from Independent Living Skills, this class covers essential topics related to developing better communication skills at home and in the workplace. Students will learn the difference between social activities and social skills, as well as the importance of good listening skills and how to present themselves on Social Media. Topics include:
- Behavior and Attitude
- Communication
- Appearance and Hygiene
- Personal Responsibility
- Self Concept
- Critical thinking And Problem Solving
View the full syllabus HERE.
WIOA Tours
WIOA Tours are field trips coordinated with the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation, in which students are exposed to different companies and college campuses. A wide variety of tour types are designed for educational development and workplace skills training. Students are able to visit real job sites and witness employees performing duties firsthand as well as learn about trade programs and other beneficial programs at universities and community colleges. Some of the previous tour locations include:
- Mercedes Plant
- Honda Plant
- Golden Flake Factory
- Lawson State
- Montevallo University
- Shelton State
- AMC Movie Theatre
- Riverchase Galleria
- Jeff State
- Carvana
- Autobahn Super Speed Way
- Birmingham Shuttlesworth Airport
For more information regarding WIOA Tours please reach out to your ADRS Counselor or contact us at Jmoates@eastersealsbham.org.
