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ETP Student Shines a Year After Graduation

ETP Student Shines a Year After Graduation
 
 
Every day, Jun (ETP Class of ’24) arrives at work at Caffé D’arte roasting plant in Federal Way, greets his co-workers, and gets a freshly made mocha. He then begins his shift, packing chocolate-covered beans for shipment, among other responsibilities.

After graduating from high school, Jun completed the three-year program at the Employment and Transition Program (ETP) at FWPS. As a student in the program, Jun found an internship that led to his current job, where he recently celebrated his first anniversary.  

Jun expressed that working makes him “happy. I can make coffee, and it makes me smile."

Jun is one of many ETP students who receive onsite job training thanks to the work at ETP and support from our district partner, Trillium Employment Services, a nonprofit organization committed to integrating people with intellectual disabilities into the workforce in multiple counties across Washington State. 

Jun added, "You (ETP/Trillium) helped me find a job. I did my resume, went on job tours, found this place, and learned how to work."

"I had the privilege of working alongside Jun during his internship last year and throughout his first year. Jun is probably one of the best hires we've made in some time," said Jordan McKay, Caffé D’arte’s marketing director. "He is one of our most professional, responsible, diligent employees. It’s been great to watch him grow into his role."

A Collaborative Effort To Support Our Students

At ETP, students learn job, communication, and social skills to prepare for the workforce, in addition to receiving support from physical, occupational, and speech therapists. Trillium provides job coaching, even after a student is hired, and connects them with local businesses for job placement, fostering an inclusive workforce in our community. 

"We partner with Federal Way Public Schools. We come in as an adult agency to work with students as they’re turning 20, 21 years old," said Casey Serquinia, a Trillium senior employment consultant who coached students like Jun during internships. "It's a great collaborative experience and works really well.”

The district provides students with opportunities to learn, visit multiple work sites, including our Educational Service Center (ESC), and try different things. Starting the next school year, we plan to launch a coffee cart at the ESC to train ETP students and continue to grow job sites within and outside our district.

"Working with the Federal Way School District team has been wonderful. They help with skill building and give students many opportunities to grow. For instance, Jun was here at Caffé D’arte 30 or 40 times with a group of students during his internship. We saw he’s good at packaging, labeling, and his attention to detail," Casey added.

The job market has evolved, and businesses now recognize the capabilities and skills individuals with disabilities bring. "There are businesses ready to try something new," said Casey. "Hopefully, someday we won’t need employment vendors because it will be standard to have an inclusive workplace."

"We’ve had great success with the students over the years. Jun was one of those who stood out," said John Virden, vice president of operations. "We made him his favorite drinks every day!"

Students like Jun receive funding from the Developmental Disability Administration and the Department of Vocational Rehabilitation, allowing them to have employment consultants or job coaches. 

Jun hopes to become a YouTuber, rapper, and artist. When he’s not at work, he enjoys making music, playing sports, and relaxing with Netflix and YouTube. His advice for younger students entering ETP is, "Be smart, be positive, and work hard!"

Federal Way Public Schools’ Employment and Transition Program (ETP) supports young adults ages 18 to 22 with intellectual and developmental disabilities as they build the skills and experiences needed to transition into adulthood and the workforce. Through our partnership with Trillium Employment Services, a nonprofit dedicated to inclusive employment, we’re expanding opportunities and creating meaningful career pathways. 

At FWPS, we recognize that student success is a shared responsibility, and schools can’t do it alone. By working together with community partners, we ensure every student is seen, supported and empowered to pursue their unique goals.

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