Career and Education - Fall 2022

CAREER & EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES

Robert L. Duffy HS is a hidden gem for learning

BY ROBERT L. DUFFY HIGH SCHOOL

Just north of Phoenix International Airport is a small campus of domed buildings that has been a unique landmark to many traveling through this part of Phoenix.

Robert L. Duffy High School, known in the community as “RLD,” is a hidden gem in Central Phoenix. It is part of Career Success Schools, known for its focused and signature programs in Phoenix for over two decades.

Career Success Schools is excited to announce a new school leader at Robert L. Duffy High School for the 2022-23 school year. Jaime Tejada, known to many as “Mr. T,” has come on board to lead the program and development of Robert L. Duffy and its CTE film and TV production program.

From its inception in 2011 until the present, it has served the needs of hundreds of students with a focus on:

• Personalized and flexible individual instruction.

• Small class size.

• Supportive and diverse instruction.

• Job readiness skills.

• Signature TV and film production program with Adobe Premiere certification.

In addition, students are able to advance in obtaining credits as well as recover credits. RLD focuses on preparing students to successfully integrate and contribute to the community. Classes are set at nine-week terms, and students are able to earn one full

credit in a semester. RLD has also fostered effective partnerships with local organizations that support the whole student with job readiness, social-emotional and personal safety.

As a leader, Tejada has a diverse background that connects with many of the students at RLD. Tejada is the first-generation college graduate. He understands the nature of struggling to achieve in an environment where language, culture, poverty and lack of opportunities are an issue. He was a second language learner with little classroom support. He believes that we can all make choices to improve our lives and that we should support each other as work to move ahead.

Students at RLD will benefit from the belief that change can come one choice at a time and that our circumstances do not predetermine our future.

“We are committed to being innovative, supportive, and building personal connections,” Tejada said.

He loves students of all ages and believes we are all “continuous” learners.

Tejada also advocates for a safe and supportive environment for teachers to thrive in knowing that an amazing teaching can have an enormous positive impact on young learners. The RLD team is unique, diverse, and qualified to provide an excellent educational experience.

Tejada is excited for the amazing opportunity to make a difference with the Rob-

CTE film and TV production program. (Robert L. Duffy High School/Submitted)

ert L. Duffy High School students, parents and community. His vision is to transform RLD into a flagship for TV and film, as well as visual arts, in Central Phoenix that provides real-life experience and relevant opportunities for its diverse student population.

For more information, contact us at 602393-4200.

Jaime Tejada, known to many as “Mr. T,” has come on board to lead the program and development of Robert L. Duffy High School and its

Stop by the Airman & Family Readiness Center

BY THE AIRMAN & FAMILY READINESS CENTER

The Airman & Family Readiness Center at Luke Air Force Base offers myriad workshops and other programs for DoD military, AFR, ANG, military retirees, DoD civilians and their eligible family members. In other words, anyone with base access.

While visiting Luke Air Force Base, stop in and take advantage of the fabulous programs offered at your Airman & Family Readiness Center.

The next virtual Luke Air Force Base job fair will be announced. Network with more than 40 local and national employers, have on-site interviews, visit with airline industries, and inquire about health care and top government agencies.

• Career enhancement programs: The Department of Labor TAP Employment Workshop is held for separating and retiring members and their spouses.

The workshop details job search strategies, networking, resume writing, interviewing, VA benefits and more. The mandatory program officially started in January 2013. “Marketing Yourself for a Second Career” is a professional lecture for officers and senior NCOs leaving the military.

Learn about salary negotiations, benefit packages, networking and resume writing to help compete for jobs in the marketplace.

• Mandatory pre-separation counseling briefing on separation/retirement entitlements.

• Discovery Resource Center: resources for relocations, transition, employment, housing, schools and more.

• AMVETS: provides medical records screening and assistance with VA disability claims.

• School liaison officer: addresses educational issues involving military children and youth in the local school

community.

• Military & Family Life Counselor Program: The counselors are here to listen and available to help service members, spouses, family members, children and staff. The MFLC Program provides confidential support for a range of issues, including relationships, crisis intervention, stress management, grief, occupational and other individual and family issues.

• Financial management programs: some of these programs available to active-duty military only.

• Family readiness programs.

• Relocation readiness programs.

• The Exceptional Family Member Program is designed to provide support to military family members with special needs. This program’s services include a variety of personnel, medical and family support functions.

For more information, contact the Airman & Family Readiness Center at 623-856-6550 or 56fss.fsfr@luke. af.mil or visit its Facebook page, Luke A&FRC. The address is 7282 N. 137th Avenue, Building 1113, Luke AFB.

Industry partners are key to West-MEC’s future

BY DR. SCOTT SPURGEON West-MEC Superintendent

Industry partners are essential to Western Maricopa Education Cen ter’s (West-MEC) future as a career and technical education school district. Many CTE programs have difficulty

finding highly qualified industry profes sionals to teach its courses. This is where partnerships with industry profession als are beneficial. Bringing in industry professionals to share their knowledge helps students learn and gives local or ganizations a look at the next generation

of job-ready individuals.

West-MEC joined the Arizona Com merce Authority for the first time and is involved in petitioning companies to come to the West Valley. West-MEC works on the front end with these busi nesses, rather than them coming in to pursue talent and workforce solutions months later.

The ideal industry partnership ben efits the business and the students. West-MEC’s partnership with the In dependent Electrical Contractors (IEC) is one that West-MEC would like all collaborations to emulate.

West-MEC students who complete the electrical trade specialty program are awarded a year-one credit in the IEC apprenticeship. The apprentice ship is a four-year model; after com pleting the first year, students are in terviewed, hired by an IEC contractor, and sponsored for the next three years of the apprentice program. Students

are not obligated to complete the ap prenticeship but repeatedly take the opportunity to receive paid, hands-on training.

Through this partnership, West-MEC students receive an outstanding oppor tunity and IEC receives an influx of jobready employees eager to join the field.

COVID-19 forced many businesses to close, reduce their number of em ployees, or launch work-from-home initiatives. This led to less opportuni ties for West-MEC students to enter the workforce.

As the quagmires of the pandemic re cede, West-MEC wants to shift the par adigm of how businesses and education collaborate. West-MEC’s new partner ship model ensures courses are aligned to industry standards and provides the best talent pipeline for companies look ing to fill their employment gap.

For more information, visit west-mec.edu or call 623-738-0022.

The ideal industry partnership benefits the business and the students. West-MEC’s partnership with the Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) is one that West-MEC would like all collaborations to emulate. (West-MEC/Submitted)

Diamond Jim’s earns title of Arizona’s most huggable jeweler

BY PETER BALGOCHIAN Diamond Jim’s Manager

Many people are wishing for the days when stores gave personal service. It seems that this is few and far between nowadays. We all want a little bit of customer service and personal attention, don’t we? Is that too much to ask? Well, at Diamond Jim’s Jewelry, be prepared for that great service again.

Diamond Jim’s believes not only in a five-star experience when you come in but makes sure you have it every time. Diamond Jim’s has both a master watchmaker and master jeweler, so there is no need to wait three weeks or more for repairs like you do at those larger chain stores. With over 100 years of combined experience in each location, you can be sure that Diamond Jim’s will give you the best service for all your jewelry and watch needs. Diamond Jim prides himself on quality jewelry and quality repair work, too. If it’s a 100-year-old pocket watch or that brand-new engagement ring you need

sized, you will get the highest-quality work from them.

Who is Jim? It’s a question many people ask when they first come into the store. Well, for more than 35 years, Diamond Jim has personally curated a wonderful collection of fine jewelry locally, and has literally traveled the country and the world for the best works of art to display in his store. His discerning eye, backed by years of experience, lets him choose only the best for his customers.

Diamond Jim has always had a long-standing respect for those who serve, especially in the military. Whether you are active or a veteran, you can feel comfortable that Jim is looking out for you. He has personally instructed his staff to always take extra care of our military personnel and to give them a special price reserved only for those who are serving or who have served. Here’s an example: a diamond wedding ring for only $40/month. A set of diamond studs for only $50/month. Wow! In addition, if you need a loan on

a piece of jewelry, you will get a special military rate from Diamond Jim’s. Now you know why Diamond Jim’s is Arizona’s most huggable jeweler.

For more information visit Diamond

Jim’s at 10001 W. Bell Road, Suite 127, Sun City, or call 623-977-2299. Want to see some great values before you come in? Check them out at diamondjims4diamonds.com.

GCC addresses future workforce needs of the West Valley

BY GLENDALE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Many people who are entering college this year are very likely to find themselves in a future work environment that is quite different than today.

To keep up with changing technology, new types of jobs will be created. These jobs will require vastly different types of skills, a wider knowledge of technology and different levels of responsibilities to solve new problems.

Glendale Community College is dedicated to preparing students for the future needs of the employers in the West Valley. GCC focuses on lifelong learning, getting credentials and degrees, expanding the use of technology and developing transferable skills. And to help students get into the workforce faster, we offer fast track credentials in high-demand disciplines.

The school also places a priority on being a resource for job seekers and employers. The GCC Career Services center connects students, certificate holders and graduates with jobs, in-

ternships and career opportunities with businesses and organizations in the West Valley.

Izelle Silva, Glendale Community College’s director career services, explained, “49.5% of the job growth in metro Phoenix will occur in the West Valley, and GCC is the hub between business, education and job seekers. We serve everyone by connecting an educated workforce with businesses in the West Valley.”

The GCC Career Services team helps students and graduates prepare for the future by providing career guidance, resume writing and interview workshops, and matching students with opportunities.

Conversely, GCC serves businesses by setting up internships, offering on-campus recruitment and sponsoring several opportunity fairs.

Glendale Community College is driving the future of the West Valley by improving the economic strength of the business sector by enhancing the skills of the students.

Izelle Silva of Glendale Community College guides a student through some of the many job-finding resources available in career services. (GCC/Submitted)

Key takeaways from the Women’s Leadership Conference

BY RHONDA CARLSON Peoria Chamber of Commerce President and CEO

Irecently attended the fi rst Arizona Women’s Leadership Conference last month, an incredible opportunity for women (and men) to come together, learn, share and grow in their professional lives. I was energized and inspired by the engaging speakers and conversations with women in our business community, as opportunities to pause, refl ect and renew in our why are rare as our daily juggling act often leaves little room for such things. But I encourage you, however and wherever you can, to make the time and, at the very least, thoughtfully absorb the following takeaways to aid in your continued development.

Be a disruptor. Push the envelope, speak up, and take risks to help achieve your why. You never know the impact you can have if you don’t take that leap forward.

Be your own advocate in the workplace. Ask leadership, “Am I being paid the same as my male counterparts for doing the same job?” If you can’t

assure gender pay equity exists in your workplace, maybe it’s time to find a better work culture.

Focus on your gifts, not your weaknesses. We are our own worst critics, and neglect giving ourselves proper kudos for being the master jugglers that we are each day.

Put your health first. We are doing ourselves and those around us a disservice if we are stuck in a constant state of stress. Even if it’s five minutes of quiet reflection, don’t skip taking care of yourself or that stressed state can lead to burnout and prevent you from being the leader you are destined to be!

Special thanks to our Peoria Chamber members, Brightworks Consulting, ASU and the city of Peoria for making this event possible.

Rhonda Carlson

President and CEO

Peoria Chamber of Commerce 15707 N. 83rd Avenue, Peoria 623-979-3601 rcarlson@peoriachamber.com

Post-high school guidance from online school graduates

BY FAMILY FEATURES

Before a global pandemic re shaped education across Amer ica, many students followed the “expected” path: complete primary education, earn a high school diploma and transition into a career or further learning.

Now, after an unexpected year (or more) of online learning, many stu dents are embracing more nontradi tional routes for their education and considering new options for life after high school graduation.

A valuable first step for high school ers is envisioning the future they want.

“Looking at different avenues and taking an interest inventory really help with the exploration process,” said Morgan Champion, head of counseling for Pearson Virtual Schools. “I recom mend completing a career cluster inter est survey, which are widely available online for free, to give guidance on which types of careers align to your in terests and skills, such as a service-re lated or scientific field.”

Next, consider these choices and tips for preparing for life after high school from alums of fully online K-12 schools Connections Academy and Reach Cyber Charter School.

Keep options open for different paths

Beyond the traditional four-year college degree, there are many ways students can progress toward a longterm goal or successful career. Com munity or two-year college is an option for some because it’s often closer to home and tuition can be more affordable. Others enroll in a trade school or secure suitable jobs and step directly into the workforce. Some graduates enlist for military service, while others take some time off to figure out their next step before making a move.

Keeping an open mind about all options is something graduate Angel Bennett supports fully. The flexibility of online learning allowed her to get a jump on her college education. She earned an associate of arts degree and associate of science degree through her local community college before

graduating high school, giving her an edge in admission to her top choice four-year college. She now attends a private liberal arts college and is well on her way to a career fueled by a pas sion for clothing and inclusive fashion design.

The ambitious pace served as inspi ration to Bennett’s younger sister, as well; Amber completed her own asso ciate of arts and associate of science degrees as a 14-year-old high schooler and will start attending a private fouryear university at 15 as she simultane ously completes her diploma.

Students should ask their high school

Beyond the traditional four-year college degree, there are many ways students can progress toward a long-term goal or suc cessful career. (Getty Images/Submitted)

navigate the application process.

Know it’s OK to take a break

Pausing in the middle of one’s edu cation is a practice that’s more com mon in other parts of the world but is growing in the United States.

According to data from Pearson, nearly 17% of U.S. high schoolers were considering a gap year, which en ables the graduate more time to evalu ate options and priorities, save money and plan for the future.

about these types of dual-enrollment options.

For some high school students, one of the most intimidating decisions to make is which colleges to apply to. However, law graduate Strid er Kachelein, top of his undergrad class and top 4% in his law class at a prestigious institution, said to take that chance and apply to your dream school, even if you think you can’t afford the tuition.

Kachelein, who started online school in sixth grade, knows paying for col lege can be challenging for many high school students and their families. He

recommends researching financial aid policies first and carefully.

“So many people believe they can’t get in and are shocked when they do,” Kachelein said. “Money can also be a big issue, but there are so many re sources available, like the college match I applied to in high school. A key stat I also looked at while researching colleges was the school’s ‘percent of fi nancial need met.’ There are a number of schools that will meet 100% of your determined financial need, which can make a world of difference. For exam ple, at these schools, if your family is deemed unable to pay tuition, room or board, then 100% of these expenses are covered by the school.”

High schoolers can reach out to their school’s college counselors to help

COVID-19 heavily influenced 2020 graduate Stormy Kaiser’s decision to take a gap year between high school and college. Choosing to accelerate her online curriculum allowed Kaiser to complete high school graduation re quirements a year early, so even after taking the year off to realign plans the pandemic disrupted, she’s on schedule to enroll in a four-year college with her peers.

Take advantage of career-related coursework in high school

Nontraditional school models often offer nontraditional curriculum op tions, like career and technical educa

Don’t be afraid to act on your dreams

AMS celebrates 20 years of excellence

BY AMS

AMS is hiring at all 10 of its kindergarten to eighth grade campuses.

The school provides a well-rounded education with STEM and CS programs that truly support the AMS vision to transform scholars into global visionaries.

According to the school, it aims to transform today’s students into the next generation of STEM innovators by helping each student develop a love for science, technology, engineering and math.

Join AMS for in-person interviews with all principals at the Desert Sky Campus, 5701 W. McDowell Road, Phoenix, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, March 4.

All qualified candidates are welcome to interview with the AMS campus principals for positions available for the 2023-24 school year.

Applicants are invited to network

and introduce themselves to the AMS administrators and educators at the career fair.

AMS proudly hires all areas of employment — custodial, maintenance, registrars, front office staff, paraprofessionals, nurse technicians, speech language pathologists/assistants and all ESS staff.

All full-time employees receive full benefits paid for by the school.

Schedule an interview at careers. amsschools.org.

If

WHAT: AMS Career Fair

WHEN: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, March 4

WHERE: Desert Sky Campus, 5701 W. McDowell Road, Phoenix

COST: Free INFO: careers.amsschools.org

AMS Teacher’s work closely with students to reach optimal learning outcomes. (AMS/Submitted)

GESD’s clubs build confidence, real-world skills

BY GLENDALE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Glendale Elementary School District (GESD) provides af ter-school extracurricular clubs for students.

Known as Mosaic Clubs, the orga nizations build on academic and so cial-emotional lessons serving as an extension of classroom learning. The clubs help build a sense of belonging and provide opportunities to create connections with peers while enriching learning with relevance and fun.

Students apply skills to real-world applications with Mosaic Clubs such as Culinary Club, Robotics Challenge and Lego League. Many activities are focused on science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) to promote collaboration, communication, critical thinking and creative problem-solving. Students discover innovations through experi mentation and imagination.

Folklórico dance, crafts and yoga and arts clubs are examples of extra curricular clubs for students who want to explore new avenues of artistic ex pression. There are also academic en richment clubs such as tutoring/guided reading for all grade levels kindergar ten through eighth grade to help stu dents advance their reading level and become more confident readers.

In addition to Mosaic Clubs, GESD will unveil Verizon Innovative Learn ing Lab at Sunset Vista School. The

new state-of-the-art lab will give students and teachers access to emerging technol ogy such as augmented and virtual reality, 3D printing and artificial intelligence. GESD staff and communi ty partners from Verizon, Heart of America, and the Entrepreneurship + Inno vation Institute at ASU are working with GESD Tech Team coaches and students to prepare for the launch of the innovative learning lab. A grand opening and rib bon-cutting ceremony are planned for early 2023.

Consider job shadowing or internships

tion courses, that students can put to work right away. For example, Amya Meekins, who also graduated high school a full year early, took business classes at her online school that helped her learn about contracts, finance and other elements to successfully start and run her own business.

She now runs a boutique in addition to being a performer and motivational speaker. She’s also nearing completion of her second book, all as a 19-yearold undergrad pursuing her first college degree.

Flexible scheduling is one of the most commonly cited advantages of online school among enrolled students. The extra free time can have big im plications for students planning their futures, especially if they use the time to explore career choices.

That’s exactly what Becky Bressen did, shadowing a music therapist at the urging of her brother, who is a physical therapist. After initially feeling the career wasn’t for her and attending college with plans to become a music engineer and producer, a music therapy class made it into her course list, and it clicked for her.

Right after college, she built a successful music therapy program from scratch at a hospice facility and finds her current role highly rewarding.

For more information about fulltime online public schools, and tips for making post-graduation decisions, vis it connectionsacademy.com.

The benefits of a gap year

When COVID-19 upended college plans for students across America, Kai ser knew she wasn’t alone. Even so, she never anticipated how using an un planned year to regroup could benefit her future.

Initially, Kaiser planned to start her

Students in the Glendale Elementary School District can join a variety of ex tracurricular clubs in addition to science, technology, engineering, arts and mathe matics (STEAM) academies and the Verizon Innovative Learning program. (Glendale Ele mentary School District/Submitted)

pre-med journey at New York Uni versity, but after seeing the effects of the pandemic in urban areas, she shift ed focus. A year of recharging and self-exploration, writing short stories and volunteering took her in a new di rection. She now plans to attend Baylor University, where she’ll double major in chemistry and mathematics as a premed student.

Due to her time management skills, personal diligence and involvement in volunteer opportunities, she was of fered scholarships at many colleges and universities — a whopping $600,000 overall. She is now on her way toward becoming a neurosurgeon.