The Marblehead VOICE (Vocational Opportunities, Independence, and Continuing Education) post-graduate program is for students 18-22, who have either graduated or received a certificate of attendance from the high school Bridges program. VOICE focuses on community, life skills, vocational experiences, internships, and exercise. It is also about gaining and practicing interview skills and preparing for a job in the future.
I have enjoyed my internships at the Salem CVS and the Marblehead Sport Shop. During my time in VOICE, I was a member of the Best Buddies club, Headlight, and the Speech and Social Skills group, which helps to promote social, emotional, and self advocacy skills to get ready for the outside world workplace. Other important skills I learned include: travel training, basic computer, cooking and set-up/clean-up, and laundry.
I am very proud of myself for accomplishing a lot in the VOICE program. I worked hard during my three summers in the program and I hope to succeed in the future. I would like to thank the faculty and students of VOICE for letting me be part of the program and for their friendliness, kindness, and their positive energy and attitudes.
Interview Questions for Dr. Sarah McCabe Hicks, school psychologist at MHS:
1. What have you heard about the Marblehead VOICE Program?
I have heard a lot about the program! Students in the program work hard with teachers and staff on developing important life skills and job skills so they can be more independent as adults. Students have lots of exciting opportunities to try out different internships to practice their skills in the community.
2. Do you think it can be hard for students to transition from high school to the Marblehead VOICE program?
I think that for some students it could be challenging to get used to a new building, new staff and teachers, and a new routine. I think that the staff work really hard with students and families to help them prepare for the transition so they feel comfortable and know what to expect.
3. Would you recommend the VOICE program for other students? Why?
If staff/teachers, family, and a student all agree that the student would benefit from learning more job and life skills so they can be more independent as an adult in the community, then I think the VOICE program is the perfect place to do that!
Interview Questions for Dr. Gasparini, school psychologist at MHS:
1. What have you heard about the Marblehead VOICE program
I work at the Marblehead VOICE program leading a social skills group and providing individual counseling services. The program helps students increase independence, provides hands-on vocational opportunities, and develops social-emotional skills in preparation for life after school.
2. Do you think it is hard for students to transition from high school to the Marblehead VOICE program?
I think any time of change can be difficult for most people to navigate, but the staff at the VOICE program is amazing and does a great job getting to know and supporting students through this transition.
3. Would you recommend the VOICE program for other students? Why?
Absolutely! The program is a very nurturing environment where students develop not only valuable skill sets, but also the confidence needed for self-advocacy and community participation.