School District Five middle school launches career development initiative

For Immediate Release – June 1, 2018

School District Five middle school launches career development initiative

COLUMBIA - Irmo Middle School student Destiny Collazos clasped her hands over her mouth, a look of surprise spreading across her face.

“This is amazing,” the 8th grader said. “I can’t believe I was chosen...I’m just so happy.”

After months of anticipation and hard work, Destiny was named the winner of a new Irmo Middle career development initiative that gives students an opportunity to work at a local business and hone workplace skills. The program was implemented this school year through a partnership with Chick-Fil-A at Columbiana Centre. Twenty eighth grade students applied to interview and compete for a guaranteed job at the local restaurant.

“This is a fun way for us show the student the importance of career-readiness...that what they learn in school will ultimately help land them a job, Irmo Middle School career development facilitator Allison Redick. “I worked with all interested participants in applying for the job which included the process of completing job applications, mock interviews and letters of recommendations. I was thrilled to see the enthusiasm and motivation the students maintained throughout the process. This opportunity prepared our students for future career opportunities.”

Chick-Fil-A owner Laurel Garcia and Redick launched the pilot program and partnership this school year to help acclimate students with real world experiences.

Redick said, “As part of our career exploration program, we host guest speakers to help students learn about careers. Mrs. Garcia spoke to our students in the Fall about her career path which led her to being a franchise owner of Chick-Fil-A and the idea was born.”

Five of the 20 candidates were chosen by Garcia and the restaurant’s Human Resources Director. After interviewing the candidates, three finalists were identified for final interviews. Destiny was named the “Irmo Ambassador” for the program during an assembly at the school in May.

Owner Laurel Garcia said, “Destiny is a very highly motivated person. She didn’t just stop at the recommendations the teacher gave for the interview. She came by the store, researched the company and always had a positive attitude throughout the process. She had a spirit of servant leader which is something that we really look for at Chick-Fil-A, someone that isn’t always self-seeking, but seeking to serve other people and make an impact and a difference.”

Irmo Middle and Chick-Fil-A Columbiana Centre plan to continue the program next Fall.

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