Students at the SMJUHSD’s Freshman Prep Program put into action skills they learned this year in their English and Leadership classes. Last week, students in English 1 returned from the last of three visits to David S. Sanchez Sr. Elementary School. Over a period of three weeks, twenty students visited five first grade classes and read to small groups of children.

Their English teacher said it was students’ idea. “I got my hands on over 125 new children’s books and asked my classes what they thought we should do with them,” Cortez said. She explained that one class suggested they donate them to Sanchez and another had the idea of reading some of the books before gifting them.

Participating students had nothing but positive comments about their experience.

“I want to go back because it was a great, it helped me be more social” said student, Adrianna Olmos.

“I really enjoyed asking the students questions about the book and seeing them raise their hand to participate, all super happy. I would really like to go back, it was fun,” explained student, Cyaira Gonzalez.

Students were asked to return to Sanchez next school year and increase the number of students and classes that participate. All participating students will return to the program as sophomores and expressed their desire to take part in this event once more.

Last week also culminated a unit on job skills in the ninth grade Leadership class. Members of the Arbor Education,

Training Program at the Workforce Resource Center, and Mr. Jay Allen, District Truancy Officer, spent time on campus conducting mock interviews last Friday.

Students learned about professional attire, how to fill out a job application and the creation of a resume. During the mock interviews students were graded on these skills and others like eye contact, a proper handshake, and demonstrating confidence.

“At first I felt nervous, but once I got in there it was a good experience. I learned how to go up to the interviewer and show that I was sure of myself and ready. I had to be myself and not act like I’m perfect. I felt proud of myself and now
I know I can get a job and do it full of confidence,” said student Pedro Garcia.

The community members conducting the interviews were very impressed and said many students interviewed better than some adults that come through their doors.

“The members from Arbor Education and Training Workforce gave our students the real-life practice that so many others never get nor acquire. My students are very special candidates that will be better prepared to join the job force,” claims Mr. Iniguez, program director.