Addison Trail students learn how to turn their passion into a career through School to Work and Pre-Occupational classes

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When Addison Trail special education teacher Stacey Puccini greets students in her School to Work and Pre-Occupational classes, her goal is to instill in them self-confidence, a strong work ethic and a desire to pursue what they love.

As part of that focus, Puccini provides opportunities for her students to gain real-world experience through visiting local businesses and meeting with career professionals. She uses her connections and networks to coordinate presenters and field trips geared toward the interests of her pupils.

“I bring in a variety of speakers who share how they followed their dreams, which shows students how they can turn their passion into a career,” Puccini said. “I want to expand their experiences and expose them to an array of options, so they’re aware of what’s available.”

So far this year, students have traveled to Woodfield Mall and Power Construction and have heard from representatives of the Addison Police Department, the Addison Consolidated Dispatch Center (ACDC) and Six Flags Great America. In February, they will attend a Wolves game to learn about sports production. Other industries discussed during previous years include media/news and music.

Addison Trail has offered the School to Work program for about seven years, and Puccini has enhanced the curriculum to include virtual lessons/materials about job interviews and job shadowing. She said she hopes to implement a structured work program in the future, where students would have vocational opportunities in the community.

“My goal is to help each student find his or her passion and discover a way to use that in the future to live independently and support themselves,” Puccini said. “I want them to realize they can exceed expectations and break through stigmatisms.”