Introduction to Pre-ETS at Easterseals
Carroll High School student Makayla gained hands-on career experience through Pre-ETS, working in a preschool classroom for a full semester.
A Semester of Career Exploration Through Pre-ETS
Makayla, a junior at Carroll, was among roughly two dozen students who participated in Easterseals Northeast Indiana’s Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) in the spring of 2019. Pre-ETS gives students the opportunity to explore career paths, develop workplace skills, and sometimes even gain direct job experience.
Hands-On Learning at Hickory Center Preschool
As part of her Pre-ETS experience, Makayla worked every afternoon in the preschool at Hickory Center Elementary School.
Classroom Duties and Discovery
From guiding children through playtime and snack breaks to supporting kindergarten readiness, Makayla was fully immersed in the classroom setting. With guidance from preschool teacher Cori Laemmle, she helped children trace letters and build their early writing skills.
“She’s a natural in the classroom,” said Laemmle. “She’s very observant and jumps right in. She thinks of things to do that I haven’t asked her to do yet.”
Building Confidence Through Pre-ETS
Makayla shared that she enjoyed seeing her preschool students laugh, color, and grow. “Being able to help kids learn, kind of like I did, and seeing them enjoy having me around” was especially rewarding for her.
More Than Just Job Experience
Work-based experiences like Makayla’s are just one part of the Pre-ETS program. Students also benefit from:
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Job exploration counseling
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Guidance on postsecondary education options
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Skills training for workplace success
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Advocacy and self-determination instruction
Conclusion: Empowering the Future Through Pre-ETS
Easterseals Northeast Indiana’s Pre-ETS program equips students like Makayla with confidence, skills, and exposure to real-life career paths—setting them up for future success.