Employment Literacy

Dear Families: 

“Inclusion is not bringing people into what already exists. It is making a new space, a better space, for everyone.” -- Rachel Olivero

Last weekend, I went to a new bakery in Buckingham called Bake Ability. The kids and I have been hearing so much about it, so we decided it was a scones-for-breakfast kind of Saturday. 

The scones were, in fact, lovely. But the employees were even lovelier. 

Bake Ability is staffed by adults with disabilities that are mentored by expert bakers. The bakery’s mission is to give individuals with different abilities the opportunity to learn a trade, grow, and serve the community -- a critical goal, since the Bureau of Labor Statistics states the employment rate for people with disabilities is a dismal 17.9 percent. 

This is not just a statistic for the more severely disabled. Even people with invisible disabilities -- such as high-functioning autism, dyslexia, and ADHD -- are unemployed at terrible rates, despite their incredible talents. In fact, more than four out of every five people with disabilities who are of working age are unemployed. 

All of this made me reflect on the critical importance of the TQS Employment Literacy Program, which allows Upper School students to pursue their passions, use adult-world communication and organizational skills, and become independent learners through authentic projects and assessments. 

This program is such an important extension of our school’s philosophy, which states: “[we] equip students with the skills needed to develop fulfilling personal relationships and lead meaningful lives.” Engaging in work that is purposeful and rewarding provides meaning to life, and we believe all of our students can and should experience this satisfaction. 

Now, you may be wondering how we are able to implement this groundbreaking program under socially distanced conditions. Well, since the school cannot bring students to businesses, we are bringing businesses to the school. 

• Using Zoom, students are meeting with and interviewing business leaders from around the region.

• Students are also preparing their own business next year: selling dog treats online. 

That’s right, TQS students are currently researching a recipe, and learning all the laws and regulations for making and selling dog treats. They are going to register the business, design the packaging, name the company, and use the culinary classroom to bake the treats. They are going to package the treats and fulfill the online orders. They are going to learn about Facebook, Instagram, and Google advertising from experts and create their own ads. And, they are going to sell to local businesses. 

(We will let you know where you can buy some awesome dog treats soon.) 

Now back to Bake Ability. Another part of our school’s mission is our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. This includes our commitment to neurodiversity and combating ableism. 

By immersing individuals with various abilities into the community, businesses like Bake Ability and the future TQS Dog Treat Company help fight stereotypes and misconceptions about people with disabilities, showcasing just how much they can accomplish. 

I am delighted that TQS can further our mission by offering this exciting learning opportunity for our students and our community. (Lily and Zelda are also very eager to serve as taste testers.) It’s just one more example of how challenging, meaningful work helps us all #shinetogether. 

Shine on,

Alex