Work-Study Program Exposes Cleveland Students To Real World – “Chapter Two” About a year ago, Beachwood Buzz ran a story (May 2014 issue) about Saint Martin de Porres High School and its mission to transform urban Cleveland, one student at a time. Workplace learning was explained as an integral component of its education model, with various Beachwood companies and organizations, including the Cleveland Clinic, Eaton, and the Alzheimer’s Association already involved. Saint Martin is a member school of the Cristo Rey Network, which is comprised primarily of families with limited economic resources. Nearly 80% of the graduates will be the first in their families to attend college. Located in the Saint Clair-Superior neighborhood near E. 55th, all its students participate in the Corporate Work Study Program that serves as both a funding mechanism for their education, but more importantly, a highly impactful experiential learning opportunity for the students. More than 100 Cleveland area businesses and organizations are involved, including hospitals, law firms, accounting firms, manufacturing companies, universities and others. Besides learning office skills, the students learn the “soft” human interaction skills that are critical to success, no matter what career path they choose. They also have the chance to observe professions they may be considering and begin to build personal networks as they prepare for college and their careers. The students attend school four days per week and work one day per week (five per month). Although funding goes to the school during the academic year, students often have the opportunity to pocket earnings during the summer or over holiday breaks. The students are typically exposed to environments where people have a college education and they’re learning what it means to be “professional.” Evidently, last year’s story in the Buzz helped raise awareness in OW GANLEY OPE N! Fiat of Bedford N $199/mo/36 mos.* Lease a 2015 FIAT® 500 Sport for: $1,999 Total Due at Signing. No Security Deposit Required. $16,745 starting at MSRP APR FINANCING or GANLEY or CASH for 60 Months BONUS ALLOWANCE CASH 0% $500 $1,750 CALL OR STOP IN FOR DETAILS TODAY! (440) 439 3444 240 Broadway Avenue On the Bedford Automile 48 Beachwood Buzz n July 2015 Beachwood with the addition of new work sites this past year, including the Jewish Federation of Cleveland and Bernie Moreno Companies (formerly Collection Auto Group). Both placements were outstanding, with students continuing to work this summer at each location. When asked about his time at the Jewish Federation, graduating senior John Wright had this to say: “The Jewish Federation taught me a lot about Jewish heritage and the people there have made me feel welcome and accepted. I have done my very best to make a great impression by demonstrating perseverance, respect, and a willingness to learn. I loved the people at my job, and it helped me develop professionally and personally. When asked what words of wisdom he would offer next year’s student who will be succeeding him, John offered, “Always come to work with an open mind.” Infiniti of Beachwood supervisor, Rick Orange, exalts that senior A’Bria Robinson “has been great!” She is eager to learn new skills and quickly became comfortable using the automotive diagnostic software. Her outgoing and friendly demeanor has contributed to their team’s being ranked #1 in customer satisfaction, a lasting memory for A’Bria this past school year. Saint Martin is extremely pleased that more Beachwood employers came on board this past year, but there is always a need for more partners as the school continues to grow. For more information, please contact Ann Davis, vice president, Corporate Work Study Program at Through Saint Martin, A’Bria Robinson was placed at Infiniti of Beachwood and John Wright was placed at the Jewish Federation of Cleveland. 216.881.1689 ext. 311 or adavis@ stmdphs.org. In addition, for those companies or individuals who can’t offer employment, the school welcomes various forms of philanthropic support. Saint Martin is extremely pleased that more Beachwood employers came on board this past year, but there is always a need for more partners as the school continues to grow.