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28th Annual School-to-World Awards Presented

Local Ceremonies Celebrate Student Success in Work-Based Learning

Shawn O'Briant, Georgina Cantero, Dallas W., and Michael Kast

Dallas W. (center), the 2024 School-to-World Award winner, is congratulated by (left to right) SCOE Vocational Specialist Shawn O’Briant, Galt Joint Union HSD Job Developer Georgina Cantero, and SCOE Assistant Superintendent Michael Kast at Galt High School on May 22.

Nearly 100 students enrolled in the Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) WorkAbility/Transition Partnership Program—a work-based learning opportunity—have been acknowledged and honored for their dedication and hard work. Area businesses that support the program were also recognized at the School-to-World ceremonies held at Galt High School and Leo A. Palmiter Jr./Sr. High School during the last week of May.

Participating students gain invaluable, well-rounded experiences. From learning how to search for jobs and write resumes to filling out applications, taking part in mock interviews, and finally landing their first job, each step provides essential skills, wisdom, and understanding.

Vocational Specialist Shawn O’Briant addressed attendees at both ceremonies, emphasizing the transformative power of employment. “Working is how we create better opportunities than the ones we currently have and how we build a stronger, brighter future for ourselves. It builds confidence and gives us the courage to keep trying.”

Each student received a certificate, and one outstanding graduating student was chosen to receive the prestigious School-to-World Award. This year’s award went to Dallas W. from Liberty Ranch High School in the Galt Joint Union High School District. The student, who took part in WorkAbility for three years, showed remarkable growth and commitment. His job experience during that time included positions at Denny’s, CVS, and most recently, Ace Hardware, where he has been offered part-time employment.

The success of the WorkAbility and Transition Partnership programs is made possible through the collaboration of school districts and local businesses that give crucial first job opportunities to youth. These businesses not only train students and teach them job skills but also reinforce their ability to interact effectively with others, setting them up for future success

Business Partners

  • Ace Hardware (Galt, Franklin Blvd., El Camino)
  • City of Galt
  • Clarksburg Library
  • D.H. White Elementary School
  • Denny’s (East Commerce, Elk Grove, Florin, Galt, Natomas)
  • Dry Creek Ranch Golf Course
  • Eskaton Village (Roseville)
  • Estralita Culinary Arts/ CTE Program
  • Falling Prices (Elk Grove)
  • Fifth Street Salon
  • Galt Public Library
  • Galt Rock & Asphalt
  • Golden Living Senior Living
  • Grocery Outlet (East Sacramento, North Sacramento, South Natomas, Rosemont)
  • Hope for Horses
  • It’s a Grind Coffee House
  • Nina’s Flowers and Gifts
  • Northern California Construction Training (E.L. Hickey Jr./Sr. High School)
  • Plush Puppy Dog Grooming
  • PetSmart (Natomas)
  • Rio Vista Auto Repair
  • Rio Vista Public Library
  • River Delta USD Maintenance Crew
  • SCOE Culinary Arts/CTE Program (Leo A. Palmiter Jr./Sr. High School)
  • SCOE Horticulture/CTE Program (Leo A. Palmiter Jr./Sr. High School)
  • Shop Heroic (Natomas, Sacramento)
  • Smart Final (Northgate, Madison)
  • South County Services
  • Twin Rivers at Natomas Assisted Living
Vanessa Edwards, Carla Quintella, Kelly Kuhl, and Shawn O’Briant

SCOE WorkAbility team members (left to right) Vanessa Edwards, Carla Quintella, Kelly Kuhl, and Shawn O’Briant.

Lauren Roth, Michael Kast, and Nancy Herota shaking hands with student

Palmiter Principal Lauren Roth (left), Assistant Superintendent Michael Kast, and Deputy Superintendent Nancy Herota congratulate students at Palmiter High School on May 30.