The Daycare has hosted two Co-operative Education (Co-op)students from Espanola High School (EHS) since September, with the placements ending as the first semester concludes the end of January.
Daycare Manager, Rachel Toulouse, expressed how much they appreciated the opportunity to train and support them at the Daycare, which included a healthy mix of both childcare and administrative duties. The young ladies were easy to get along with and fit in quickly with the staff and their new environment. They brought a level of support and a fresh perspective to the facility as well, Rachel added.
Chloe Southwind is completing a 2-credit, half-day co-op placement as part of her journey to graduation from Grade 12 in June. She is pictured with her supervisors Cassandra Toulouse and Charmaine Abitong. “I love being around the kids,” said Chloe warmly. When asked if the placement helped her to determine if this career path was one she wished to pursue post-secondarily, she said she is leaning more so towards the Paramedic program. “Co-op gives you an experience of the environment, which is helpful,” Chloe determined. Cassandra and Charmaine both added remorsefully, “Too bad [the placement] wasn’t longer, but it has been really nice.”
Cocoa-Chanel Linklater is completing a 4-credit, full-day placement on her education journey and is pictured here with her supervisors, Tiffany Bell and Heidi Southwind. Cocoa-Chanel’s supervisors remarked positively about her contributions as well, sharing that “the kids love having her in the classroom and look forward to having her here – which started already in the first week of placement. Daycare friends formed a relationship quickly with Cocoa.”
For both Chloe and Cocoa-Chanel, much of their learning within the Co-op placement included working with the children during play time, outdoor activities, assisting students putting on their shoes or coats, feeding/snack time, and observing the techniques the Registered Early Childhood Educators utilize to offer a nurturing and supportive environment to the young friends. They were also given an opportunity to perform and observe administrative tasks crucial to the facility’s operations.
Miigwech to both students for their positive contributions to the Daycare these past four months.
If a Co-operative Education program sounds like something you are interested in doing in High School, reach out to the school administration for direction, or contact our Guidance & Career Coach, Josephine Toulouse, to help guide you on that path: Toulouse_josephine@sagamok.caor 705-865-1590 ext. 6221. There are many career placement options to choose from, including exciting and interesting opportunities here in Sagamok.