The West Hawaii community has been supportive of this program. A variety of businesses have participated, many of them numerous times including: Miranda’s Pets, Safeway, Alii Vet, PAWS University, Lamberts Fine WoodWorking, Hulihee Palace and Kailua Candy Co.
SPECIAL TO WEST HAWAII TODAY
The Innovations Public Charter School Mentorship Program offers middle school students a real-world experience in various fields of employment.
Prior to the start of each semester, students are asked to identify a field or business in which they would like to work. Students learn how to create a resume that includes their skills, academic achievements, volunteerism, previous work-related experience and goals. Teachers and parents approach businesses and professionals in the community to consider a mentorship for a few hours each Friday for about 12 weeks. Using their resume, students interview with mentors for a mentorship experience in their professional field.
Through the mentorship experience, students gain perspective and hands-on application of all aspects of a field of work: data collection, paperwork, skills development, customer service and evaluation. Students are provided an opportunity to explore their areas of passion and envision the skills, training, schooling and dedication it will take to work in a trade.
The West Hawaii community has been supportive of this program. A variety of businesses have participated, many of them numerous times including: Miranda’s Pets, Safeway, Alii Vet, PAWS University, Lamberts Fine WoodWorking, Hulihee Palace and Kailua Candy Co.