The Illinois Career Pathways program led Life Skills and Pre-Employment Career Training (PECT) classes to Fairmount Park for a field trip about job opportunities and skills needed.  

"Students loved seeing the horses, meeting the VP of Operational Development, Kate McMahon, and the Environmental Services Supervisor, Ryan McCoy," said Special Education Transition Life Skills Instructor Alicia Furlow. "They are hoping to hire part-time employees for race days, Tuesdays and Saturdays, to help pick up trash, clean tables, answer customer questions and keep a happy and lively atmosphere."

Career Pathways is a University of Illinois research-based program managed by the IMPACT Center for Independent Living. Coordinator Cynthia “Cindy” Klein-Webb visits special education students at Collinsville middle and high schools to teach a 12- to 14-session unit on self-advocacy and independence. The program aims to prepare students for the transition to life after high school.

"We want students to lead full, productive lives of their choice, which include employment and possible post-secondary school. This is done in a growing partnership with the Collinsville School District and surrounding businesses in the community," said Catherine Kulupka, CUSD 10 Special Education PECT and Co-Op Coordinator.