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These high school students with developmental disabilities are learning academics that include social studies, computers, art and math, but also getting a good dose of real life job experience. One goal is to help teens learn job skills that will play a major factor in each student’s future work experiences, explains Social Worker Theresa Murdock, who works with these students and helps coordinate internships.
“One of my responsibilities is to help Life Skills students plan for their futures and prepare them for the world of work. Some students have intellectual disabilities and some are on the autism spectrum. They are enthusiastic learners and want what every other teenager wants – an opportunity to learn skills that will prepare them for future employment,” said Murdock.
Student Joe Torrieri, 17,works at Yorktown Pizza and Pasta each week taking pride in his task of making boxes. Joe Giuliano, who owns the shop complements the younger Joe for his hard work and says as a longtime local business owner he is happy to help the students of the community.
The community of Yorktown has gone above and beyond in its support for this program, says Murdock.
“Without this support we would not be able to offer our students this exposure to the world of work, responsibility and skill advancement.”
The program, which began in 2008, teaches job skills as well as the importance of acting appropriately in a business environment, following a boss’s instructions and showing up ready to work. Businesses that would like to participate should contact Theresa Murdock at 914- 243-8050 x 11850 or tmurdock@yorktown.org.
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