By Matt Weingarden
In a heartwarming display of community partnership, students enrolled in Mr. K, Parent’s World of Work class as a part of the Life Skills’ Department at St. Anne Catholic High School in Tecumseh are gaining valuable work experience at Sobeys St. Clair Beach, making a lasting impact on both the store and the students themselves.
The life-skills co-op program, coordinated between St. Anne Catholic Secondary School and Sobeys and supported by the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board, provides students with diverse learning needs the opportunity to develop practical job skills in a supportive and inclusive environment. Each week, students undertake a variety of responsibilities at Sobeys, from stocking shelves and bagging groceries to helping customers—all under the guidance of dedicated staff.
“Within the school, we offer a program called ‘World of Work,” where students learn basic domestic skills such as laundry and kitchen tasks, provide a coffee cart for staff, and complete in-school co-op placements at the cafeteria and school store,” said Marianne Dipasquale, head of the Special Education Department at St. Anne. “”The next step for students who are successful at in-school coop, physically, socially and cognitively is moving on to a community coop placement.
Dipasquali describes the partnership as ‘wonderful,’ highlighting the role of store management and employees in the program’s success.
According to store manager Rob Hayes, assisting and giving back to the community is a core-value and cornerstone of the Sobeys philosophy.
“Sobeys employees and managers have embraced the initiative, observing the positive atmosphere the students bring. “Our team loves having the students here. They’re enthusiastic, hardworking, and always eager to learn,” said Hayes.
Parents have also expressed their gratitude for the program, highlighting how it prepares their children for life beyond the classroom while fostering a sense of belonging within the community.
“This program has been extremely important to our son’s development and maturation. It has given him a sense of pride and purpose that would have been difficult for him otherwise,” explained one parent. “We know the staff all love him and look forward to his time at the store.”
According to another family, “The partnership between St. Anne and Sobeys is amazing! It’s great that the students who have already been in high school for 5-6 years get the opportunity to leave school and feel like they have a purpose in the community.”
Students, along with educational assistant, are transported by taxi to the store, which provides real-life experience by involving students in a work environment and fostering independence while following a routine. Over the years, students have worked in various store departments, with some even securing meaningful employment after graduation.
“Parents are very pleased to see that others recognize the value in their children, that they are capable of learning and working, which reflects a great underlying principle,” said Dipasquale.
The ongoing partnership between St. Anne School and Sobeys St. Clair Beach is a shining example of how local businesses and schools can work together to create meaningful, inclusive opportunities for all students.
“Our students benefit tremendously from being part of the workforce. The real-world experience boosts their confidence and independence,” added Dipasquale. “It’s incredible to see their growth, both socially and professionally.”
As the program continues, both organizations hope to inspire similar initiatives throughout Windsor-Essex County.
“It’s a win-win for everyone,” concluded Hayes.