Eighteen students from Rock Ridge, Stone Bridge, Heritage, Independence and Lightridge high schools participated in a unique learning opportunity on Oct. 16, 2024. Open to all LCPS high school students receiving IEP services, the event was part of the LCPS Career and Transition programming. Held at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) building in Washington, D.C., and coordinated through Michael Looney, Disability Program Manager at the FAA, the event coincided with National Disability Mentoring Day. The day highlighted the importance of career exploration and mentorship for students with disabilities.
During the visit, students heard from FAA professionals who shared insights into their careers and the agency's innovative work, including space launches, drones and other technological advancements.
To provide a personalized experience, each student was paired with an FAA mentor specializing in an area aligned with the student’s interests. These mentors offered guidance, answered questions and provided advice on potential career paths. This behind-the-scenes glimpse into the FAA’s operations helped students connect classroom learning to real-world applications.
“Providing our students with diverse job opportunities through business visits is crucial because it helps develop a broader understanding of potential career paths, build confidence in their abilities, and identify suitable employment options that align with their skills and interests. This event is a fantastic example of how community partnerships can inspire students, broaden their horizons, and help increase their options for successful post-graduation employment through practical, real-world exposure to various workplaces and roles. Additionally, this initiative strengthens our community by fostering a culture of inclusivity and demonstrates to business owners the valuable contributions individuals with disabilities can bring to the workforce, creating a mutually beneficial relationship that promotes diversity and economic growth,” said Tedra Richardson, Assistant Superintendent of Student Services.
The Disability Mentoring Day experience is an example of the work being done within the Career and Transition to foster meaningful connections between students and local organizations to support career readiness and personal growth. Events like these empower students to explore their potential and envision successful futures.
For more information about LCPS Career and Transition Services and its initiatives, visit the LCPS website.