South Plains Educational Cooperative (SPECO) received $10,000 in project funding from Texas A&M Work-Based Learning Project.
The project funds will be allocated to further develop the Exceptional Transition Center’s (ETC), school-based enterprise by purchasing catering equipment and uniforms for the food truck endeavor.
SPECO is a shared services arrangement which provides special education services for eight school districts: Morton, Sundown, Anton, Smyer, Whiteface, Meadow, Whitharral and Ropes.
The ETC is the transition program for these districts that serves students with varying disabilities ages 14-22.
Recently, the program acquired a food truck through the generosity of private donors.
The program teaches vocational skills such as selfdetermination, self-awareness, social emotional skills, financial literacy and employment skills.
Texas A&M-Centers on Disability and Development and Texas Workforce provide expert guidance and facilitate connections with businesses and organizations that are committed to inclusive employment practices.
They focus on helping develop school-based enterprises like the Exceptional Transition Center offered through SPECO. Work-Based Learning provides students with real-world experiences, essential work skills and increased confidence as they transition into adulthood and the workplace.
SPECO has learned that students who have had the opportunity to work in real life work settings are more prepared for the workplace and can be contributors to their communities.
The project funds and private donations will impact students with disabilities across the South Plains by giving them the skills necessary to enter the workforce upon graduation.
The groups goal is to take our food truck, E-Eats, on the road to each community our students represent and show off their skills.