DANVERS — Northeast Arc and Lynn Public Schools are partnering to launch a new program, Pathways to Opportunities.
The program is designed to provide high school students with a mentorship that will help them develop life skills, find paid internships and prepare them for potential careers in the human services field.
“Many high school students do not feel connected and are experiencing greater social and economic insecurities,” said Maria Terris, director of the Pathways to Opportunities program. “This new after-school program seeks to solve that problem by providing increased affirmation, positive relationships and structured support that also allows them to earn some money.”
Jo Ann Simons, president and CEO of Northeast Arc, added, “This multi-year program will serve as a connection for participating students, empowering them to discover personal growth through collaborative experiences.” She continued, “Upon graduation, students who take part in this program will be given priority application status for open positions at Northeast Arc and will be supported, if they choose, to take full advantage of tuition reimbursement and tuition remission programs available to Northeast Arc employees.”
“We are very excited to partner with the Northeast Arc on this innovative program,” said Amy Dunn, principal of Lynn Classical High School. “The program is open to students in grades 9 through 12 with activities and learning opportunities that will be tailored to different age groups at times and repeated through a student’s four years.”
Pathways is a result of community collaboration. Ten different foundations, organizations and individuals have contributed to Pathways. When asked why they supported these programs, the supporters focused on preparing and empowering the next generation.
“Pathways to Opportunities is that rare program that embodies all aspects of our mission,” said Michael Christian, board president of Someone Else’s Child. “We are honored to support Northeast Arc in developing a mentorship program that empowers high school students to discover innate skills through collaborative internship experiences.”
