Employer Panel
October 9th 2023
Leander ISD Vocational Services was honored to host the following business owners and Vocational Services professionals on a Community Employer Panel on October 9, 2023 during a Leander ISD Continuing Education program for teachers and job coaches: Rachel Birkhead, Communications Manager, St. David’s Round Rock Medical Center; David Berg, Owner, Viapac; Dwayne Bruner, Owner, Chicken Express; Christine Price, Program Coordinator, ACC STEPS; Kimberly Greer, Project SEARCH Coordinator, Ascension Seton Health, Texas.
The goal was to share feedback about working with Leander ISD Vocational Services students, and share ideas about establishing partnerships with local businesses.
Excerpts:
"Why are you someone who employs students with disabilities?"
"The students show up. They are an asset to the team."
"These students should have an opportunity to show their value to the world."
"I cannot imagine not hiring them."
"They are creative, and hardworking."
"What is the best way to approach businesses for unpaid internships or work-based learning?"
"Be honest, employers don't want surprises. Don't sugarcoat it."
"Educating employers, and changing perceptions about employing students with disabilities is the key!"
"Disclosing a disability helps the employer to understand, especially with invisible disabilities."
"What makes any one of our students more acceptable as an intern or employee?"
"Their ability to follow a task list, their productivity, quality of work, reliability."
"If you believe in them, I believe in them."
"Hygiene is very important."
"They are all going to have their uniqueness."
"Know your student, know where they fit best."
"If you find the right environment, students can excel."
"How can a job coach appeal to a business without bugging them?"
"Take "bugging" off the table. It takes 7-15 times of follow up and/or 3 months to close the deal."
"Establishing a relationship with the business is very important."
Miscellaneous thoughts...
"These students are not broken, you don't have to fix them."
"You guys give parents hope."