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Community Work Experience

Specialized programming for students with learning differences

Designed to prepare students for entry into competitive employment and paid supported employment positions.

Questions? Call 440.891.7617

The Community Work Experience program is a Special Admissions program designed to prepare students for entry into competitive employment. Students in the Community Work Experience program will develop employability skills and traits necessary for succeeding in the workplace while gaining both non-paid, and paid work experience.  Some of these employability skills and traits to be developed include:

  • Maintaining good attendance

  • Displaying a positive attitude

  • Working independently and as a team member

  • Following instructions

  • Interacting appropriately with supervisors and co-workers

  • Taking pride in workmanship (quality)

  • Displaying flexibility

  • Working safely

  • Enhancing problem-solving skills/ability

  • Working at an acceptable/competitive work rate

  • Enhancing work stamina

  • Staying on task

  • Working under pressure/stress and managing frustration

Community Work Experience students gain authentic work experience through opportunities provided by local business establishments within all associate school local communities. The goal of the program is for students to be successfully employed upon graduation.  Some tasks students will experience while participating in the Community Work Experience program might include:

  • Assembling informational packets

  • Working in a cafeteria/restaurant dish room

  • Basic food prep

  • Packaging

  • Stocking

  • General light duty cleaning

  • Linen Services

  • Shipping and receiving tasks 

  • Retail service tasks

  • Outdoor grounds maintenance

For additional information, contact Mike Rhamy, Associate Principal at 440.891.7617 or email Mike Rhamy.

Teacher: Chuck Seitz

Teacher: Chuck Seitz

Email Chuck Seitz
Education:  Bachelor of Science in Education; Kent State University
Certifications:  Welding & Cutting, Career Based Intervention, Transition to Work
At Polaris Since:  2002
Industry Experience:  Metal Fabrication Industry, 16 years and 20 years experience in education
Interests/Hobbies: Chuck enjoys running, bicycling and camping.

Community Work Experience 2023-2024 Advisory Members
Ms. Caroline Boyd, Seasoned Brands (Aladdin's)
Mr. John Brown, Brighton Best International
Mr. Mark Elliott, City of Middleburg Heights
Mr. Jim Farren, CVS/Health
Mr. John Germaine, Giant Eagle
Mr. Matt Holland, Marc's
Mr. Greg Mencini, The Great Escape
Mrs. Jessica Perez, The Home Depot
Ms. Meryl Reams, Arrow Senior Living (Vitalia North Olmsted)
Ms. Amanda Saah, Discount Drug Mart
Mr. Jon Schmittgen, Cuyahoga County Board of DD
Mr. Mark Schuster, Southwest General Health Center