CAREER & EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES
Your complete guide to local career and education • WINTER 2021
Special Supplement to The Glendale Star and Peoria Times
Strategies for undecided students
INSIDE This Issue
MIDWESTERN UNIVERSITY .......... 4 Midwestern now has 4 new graduate nursing programs
Having a clear idea of the required courses for your degree program is critical to completing college in a time-efficient manner. In addition to consulting academic and faculty advisors, using online resources like the college catalog, degree checksheets and transfer guides will provide the information you need to stay on track. But what if you don’t know what you want to study or which type of career to pursue? You don’t need to wait to start college until you have decided on a major. There are ways you can get off to a good start, even when you’re not quite sure where the road ahead will take you.
Use career services
PENDERGAST SCHOOL DISTRICT ................ 6 The district believes in you
VETERANS UPWARD BOUND .............. 12 is an essential program for veterans looking to pursue their education
Countless resources to help you explore your options are at your fingertips and right on your college campus. Each of the 10 Maricopa Community Colleges offers career services to students. Some of the most helpful online resources provided include: The Maricopa CareerLink delivers customized career planning guidance so you can set relevant academic and career goals that better allow you to plan for your future. You will be able to assess personal career interests, skills and values, and explore occupations and majors that could be a great fit for you. Click on the Maricopa CareerLink icon on my.maricopa.edu.
Start with general education courses Every college degree requires at least some
general courses, which would apply to multiple majors — English, math and science, for example. If you get started on these, and do research on career options in the meantime, you’ll buy yourself more time to consider your decision on a major. Important to keep in mind, though, is that specific general education courses may also be required for the major you eventually select. For example, nursing majors are required to take specific biology courses, so if they take astronomy or geology courses for science when they are undecided on their major, they will still need to take the required biology courses later. If you’re even considering a major or two (or three), share this information with your advisor so he or she can help you enroll in courses that count for one or more of the majors
you are considering and will meet general education requirements.
Start with major specific courses You may be thinking, “Didn’t I just read the opposite?”, but a different and equally wise strategy for undecided students is to jump into what really interests you. Starting with introductory-level courses in majors you are considering may actually help you start to narrow in on your interests, and help make you comfortable in your first semester or two of college. In addition, your instructors are great sources for learning about the career options you may have if you pursue a degree in the academic disciplines they
Career Success Schools Say YES to Success REDESIGNING AND REIMAGINING EDUCATION Four Schools To Choose From • Enroll Today!
602-285-5525 • csschools.com
Students...continued on page 8
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Career & Education Opportunity
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VALLEYLIFE helps to enhance quality of life BY VALLEYLIFE
VALLEYLIFE is a nonprofit organization that provides premier services to individuals with disabilities to enhance their quality of life. The agency does so by enriching their lives with rewarding experiences and valuable opportunities — and enabling them to live a life with choices, independence and dignity. VALLEYLIFE services are delivered through caring and dedicated staff, specialized programs and advocacy. VALLEYLIFE provides residential services, day services, home- and community-based services, and vocational services to people with disabilities. Residential services operate 26 group homes, which function like traditional family homes, throughout the Phoenix metropolitan area. Day services provide programs designed to improve independent living, social and recreational skills, and offer op-
portunities for community involvement. Home- and community-based services provide valuable support to people with disabilities and their families in the comfort of their own homes. Vocational services provide opportunities for people with disabilities to obtain and maintain meaningful employment through job search and placement, job coaching and development, and training opportunities. VALLEYLIFE members’ diagnoses range from physical, developmental and cognitive disabilities to behavioral health diagnoses, age-related conditions and traumatic brain injury. VALLEYLIFE has an in-depth understanding of how to meet the unique needs of each member it serves. Founded in 1947, VALLEYLIFE has been serving the greater Phoenix area for 70 years. For more information, visit valleylifeaz.org or contact Dede Houston at 602-216-6328.
VALLEYLIFE VALLEYLIFE organization that provides programsthat and VALLEYLIFE isis aa non-profit non-profit organization services to men, women, and children with developmental disabilities. provides programs and services to men, women, and children developmental disabilities. Fullwith Time and Part Time
Caregivers Needed!
Full Time and Part Time Caregivers Needed! We are currently looking for caregivers throughout the Phoenix metro area including Glendale, Peoria, Phoenix and Scottsdale.
Applicants must pass a We are currently looking for caregivers background check and drugthroughout test. the Phoenix metrotransportation area including is Glendale, Peoria, Reliable required. Phoenix and Scottsdale. Please apply at www.valleylifeaz.org Applicants must pass a background check and drug test. Reliable transportation is required.
VALLEYLIFE members’ diagnoses range from physical, developmental and cognitive disabilities to behavioral health diagnoses, age-related conditions and traumatic brain injury.
(Photo courtesy VALLEYLIFE)
Career Success Schools focus on education and careers
BY CAREER SUCCESS SCHOOLS
Arizona-based Career Success Schools was incorporated in 2000 and operates four charter school campuses in Phoenix. All four campuses operate as alternative schools, which serve at-risk populations. Three of them also offer a Dropout Recovery Program, which is available to students ages 16 to 21 who have not received a high school diploma or attended school for 30 days. The Sage Campus enrolls students in grades kindergarten through eighth grade, while the Tech and Robert L. Duffy campuses host kids in grades nine to 12. The programs and schools are accredited through Cognia, an independent organization with researched-based standards that are above state standards. Career Success Schools has opened the Star Academy. A school within a school, Star Academy Program enhances success for disengaged learners. Star Academy focuses on helping students make the critical transition
from middle school to high school. The program utilizes a hands-on, project-based learning approach that re-engages students and prepares them for future success in high school and beyond. This comprehensive program is tailored to meet the specific needs of a school, allowing the district to select up to eight courses from an offering of core classes in science, math, English
Careers...continued on page 9
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Career & Education Opportunity
CAREER SUCCESS SCHOOLS ARE REDESIGNING AND REIMAGINING EDUCATION TODAY!
ENROLL TODAY AT ONE OF OUR FOUR CAMPUSES! CSS Stem Academy with the award-winning Star Academy or Tech High School with another completely remodeled and redesigned new Cosmetology center. We are also leveling the playing field even more by providing district-provided Google Chrome books and free internet for all students!
Call today for a virtual or in-person tour! All Career Succes Schools are open for in-person learning
Enrolling Now CSS STEM Academy
CSS STEM Academy
STEM ACADEMY OFFERS:
Introducing Star Academy Middle School Grades 7-9 This is a comprehensive program that immerses students in core courses through a hands-on, project-based curriculum that re-engages them towards academic success.
Multi-year winner of the Crystal Star Award of Excellence in dropout recovery, intervention and prevention.
602.687.8282
• Grades 7 to 12 • District provided laptop + free internet • Enhanced learning + digital curriculum • Flexible schedule + graduate early programs • Award winning STEM curriculum
| csstemacademy.com/welcome-now-enrolling | cssschools.com/STEM
Tech High School Cosmetology Center • • • •
Dynamic Education Work with World-Renowned Brands Prepare for the State Board Exam Earn your High School diploma
Program Benefits: • • • •
At 600 hours students receive $100 gift card for supplies At 1200 hours students receive State Board exam kit At completion of hours State Board exam fee will be paid for the student Receive a $300 gift card for supplies upon completion and license
602-285-5525
Sage Campus • 3120 N. 32nd St.
Tech Campus • 3816 N. 27th Ave.
| cssschools.com/TECH
Robert L. Duffy Campus • 2550 E. Jefferson St.
CSS Stem Academy • 8503 N. 27th Ave.
REMOTE AND IN PERSON LEARNING
• Flexible Schedule + Early Graduate Programs • Grades 9 to 12 • Cognia Accredited • District provided laptops/Chrome Books + Internet Access • All Schools Follow CDC Guidelines • Enhanced Learning + Digital Curriculum • Education + Career Action Planning
ENROLL TODAY 602-285-5525 • csschools.com
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Career & Education Opportunity
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Estaff Security Inc.: Now Midwestern University hiring for baseball and more has new nursing programs BY ESTAFF SECURITY INC.
Estaff Security Inc. is a special event management company now hiring for full- and part-time Spring Training, concerts, festivals, commercial facilities and events statewide. Estaff Security Inc. is hiring security to staff these events statewide. These jobs are fun with friends and family with flexible hours. They’re perfect for supplementing income, and many primary positions are available. Check Estaff Security Inc.’s Facebook for upcoming security positions. Estaff personnel staff special events like Spring Training, No experience necessary. concerts, festivals, commercial facilities and events stateWill train. wide. (Photo courtesy Estaff Inc.) Send resumes or request to schedule.estaff@gmail.com or call Press option 3 for more information. 480-733-3883
NOW HIRING!
FOR BASEBALL SPRING TRAINING At PEORIA SPORTS COMPLEX
Also: HIRING
SECURITY & EVENT PERSONNEL VALLEYWIDE H Full & Part-Time Hours H H No Experience Needed H H Fun Job with Flexible Hours! H Send Resume or Request an Application: Schedule.estaff@gmail.com or call
480-733-3883
Press Option 3 for more information
Misty L. Pagán, D.N.P., APRN, AGNP-C, center, is the program director for the four new graduate nursing programs at the Midwestern University College of Health Sciences.
(Photo courtesy Midwestern University)
BY TONY JOHNS
Midwestern University
The College of Health Sciences at Midwestern University’s Glendale campus has received approval from the Arizona State Board of Private Post-Secondary Education to implement four new graduate nursing programs. Dr. Kathleen H. Goeppinger, president and chief executive officer, said Midwestern University now offers a Master of Science in nursing (MSN) program and a post-master’s certificate track with an adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner concentration. Both programs were recently approved by the Arizona State Board of Nursing. Other new programs include an MSN with a concentration in nurse leadership in global health and a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) program with two specialty tracks. The first track is designated for actively working adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioners electing to complete a doctoral degree in their area of specialty. The second track is designed for master’s-prepared nursing leaders aspiring to become doctoral-prepared nurse executives. All graduate nursing programs are scheduled to matriculate in fall 2021 except for the post-master’s certificate, which is scheduled to matriculate in summer 2022. Adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioners are advanced practice nurses specializing in the delivery of prima-
ry care to clients ages 13 through end of life. Nurse practitioners are instrumental in addressing demands due to increasing primary care provider shortages, especially within vulnerable or aging communities, underserved populations and remote areas. These nurse practitioners also participate in multidisciplinary collaborations to mitigate the risk of adverse client outcomes. “Our graduate nursing programs come at a time when advanced practice nurses and nurse leaders are in high demand,” said Misty L. Pagán, D.N.P., APRN, AGNP-C, program director, graduate nursing programs for the College of Health Sciences. The university’s objective is to graduate master’s- and doctoral-level nursing professionals who will deliver high-quality, affordable, equitable and culturally competent client-centered care. “At Midwestern University, we take pride in our unique One Health Initiative, a holistic approach taken to educate our health care students by recognition of the connection between humans, animals and the environment,” Pagán said. “Our students will have access to a limitless number of resources, including state-of-the-art technology, while learning in various multidisciplinary settings.” More information regarding these programs can be found at Midwestern University’s website at midwestern.edu/ nursing.xml.
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Career & Education Opportunity
You Want to
[Advance Your Nursing Career.] We’ll Build Your Future. Midwestern University’s new graduate nursing programs offer an affordable, flexible hybrid format to support working nurse professionals. Doctor of Nursing Practice
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner • Nurse Executive
Master of Science in Nursing
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner • Nurse Leadership in Global Health
Post-Master’s Certificate
For more information, visit
www.midwestern.edu/nursing
or contact admissaz@midwestern.edu or 623-572-3215.
• Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Midwestern University Tomorrow’s Healthcare Team
19555 North 59th Avenue Glendale, Arizona 85308 www.midwestern.edu
Pendergast: The district believes in you 6
Career & Education Opportunity
BY DR. LILY MATOS DEBLIEUX
The Pendergast District is focused on educating the “whole child” through research-based academics, fine arts, physical education, technology, extracurricular programs and a full-time counselor on each campus. Leadership opportunities are encouraged for students at each grade level. Those include clubs, organizations, student government and community service. The district has signature STEAM Academies (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) that include dual language, ethnic studies, GCON design and build, computer science, agriculture ecosystems, energy, conservation and efficiency academy, Orcutt | Winslow Architecture, planning and construction, leadership and accelerated math, Banner Health, medical and forensic sciences, entrepreneurship and Next Level Leadership Academy. Character Education is promoted on each campus through the Be Kind Pro-
gram. The Speak Up, Stand Up, Save a Life movement is working to eradicate bullying and focuses on issues plaguing youth today, by sharing positive solutions on each of the 12 campuses. The district is also known for its eighth grade superintendent’s student council who mentors and trains youth to be the leaders of tomorrow and focuses on career and college readiness and community service. Pendergast is the district that believes in you! Come join us today!
Top, Sonoran Sky Elementary Students learn math through hands-on activities. Left, The Pendergast Elementary School District has a oneto-one computer program. (Photos courtesy Pendergast Elementary School
District)
Pendergast We BEE-lieve in You!
Elementary School District
3801 North 91st Avenue | Phoenix, Arizona 85037 | Phone: 623-772 623-772623 772-2200 2200 | www.pesd92.org
The Pendergast Elementary School District offers... FREE FULL DAY KINDERGARTEN
DUAL LANGUAGE PROGRAMS
FREE & REDUCED BREAKFAST / LUNCH
WINTER 2021
HIGH STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT
STUDENT LEADERSHIP & COMMUNITY SERVICE
BEE KIND CHARACTER EDUCATION PROGRAM
DEDICATED TEACHERS
SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, ARTS & MATH (S.T.E.A.M.) ACADEMIES
REGISTER TODAY
at the Pendergast Learning Center 3841 N. 91st Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85037 623 623-772-2302
Students...continued from page 1 teach. Faculty can also provide a glimpse into higher courses in the major, which may help you decide if you are interested enough in the field to pursue it further.
Mix it up a bit It can be beneficial, particularly for full-time students, to take a combination of major-specific and general courses. Once you decide on a major, there will be often be sequenced courses that cannot be taken in the same semester. If you take most or all of your general education courses early on, you may not be able to build a full-time schedule of major-specific courses later, since you can’t take all of them at the same time. Developing a one- to two-semester educational plan with an advisor, even if you don’t know your major, is possible and can help prevent delays in completing your degree.
Take a career exploration course CONNECT WITH US
If you just don’t know where to start on your quest for a major, the structure
and support of a college course in career exploration or college success strategies is a great way to learn about resources available to you and receive professional guidance on using them. It also provides a set time for you to explore your interests and research careers — a task that may get set aside otherwise when you are busy with other classes. At the Maricopa Community Colleges, there are several courses you may want to consider. Check locations, dates and times of these courses on my.maricopa.edu: • CPD102AB Career Exploration. • CPD115/AAA115 Creating College Success. • CPD150/AAA150 Strategies for College Success.
Jump into math The vast majority of math courses must be taken one at a time, in a prescribed sequence. Many students need to take several math courses to reach the level required for their major. Taking a free placement test at your Maricopa Com-
Students...continued on page 15
Tips for success on your online interview
WINTER 2021
BY JOHN HECKENLAIBLE
Now more than ever, human resource departments and hiring managers are working remotely. That means that your next job interview will probably be held via an online video conference call. To help you prepare for this likely scenario, here are some tips for you to follow, which will be especially helpful if you don’t have experience in video conference calls. Just follow these suggestions and remember: A video call is just like any other interview; being prepared is critical for success. 1. Test the technology. Employers use a variety of video conferencing platforms, so it is important to test the technology by doing a practice run with a friend or family member. Create an account on the platform the employer is using and make sure the audio setting is correct, or if you decide to use headphones or ear buds, test them to make sure you can hear and be heard. Sometimes when using technology for the first time, downloads may be required; and you never want to do that right before an interview, because it can take a few minutes and cause you to be late. 2.Your background frame is important. You want to be sure that the area behind you in the image frame is not dis-
Careers...continued from page 2 and social studies and electives in practical arts, life skills, technology, healthbased instruction and real-world career connections. Career Success Schools Tech High School in Phoenix offers three innovative and specialty programs. Tech’s accelerated programs allow students to earn up to eight credits each school year. The schools also offer credit recovery courses for students who have struggled with these courses previously. One of the specialty programs is cosmetology. This course is offered on campus in the newly remodeled class and salon. Through this course, students will complete all the requirements to take the state assessment
Career & Education Opportunity
tracting. What does your background look like, what can be seen in “your frame” and will it be distracting to others? Some online conference services offer virtual backgrounds. When you test the technology, check your frame and look at your lighting to make sure your face can be seen clearly. 3. Be distraction free. If you are in a household with others, let them know that you are going into an interview. Consider putting a sign on your front door to let people know not to ring the doorbell, especially if you have animals that make noise when the doorbell rings. Also, don’t forget to completely turn off your cell. It can be distracting even if it is on vibrate. 4. Be prepared. Prepare for an online interview just as you would a face-to-face one. Dress as if you were going in for an in-person interview by wearing attire that is neat and professional. There is something about wearing interview clothes to put you in the right mindset. 5. Be engaging. The challenge with online interviews is being able to capture and keep the attention of interviewers in a call through a screen. Be sure to practice interviewing by doing mock interviews with friends or family members. Make sure you can be heard clearly, pay attention to your tone, and
and can graduate with their license in cosmetology. This program is open to male and female students. For those interested in a medical career, the schools have a partnership with Accord Health Care. Through this partnership, students enrolled in Tech High School can take classes on campus for a variety of programs, including certified nursing assistant (CNA), phlebotomy, EKG tech or long-term health care. Through this partnership students can graduate with a high school diploma and a certificate or license to move right into a career. Additionally, there are programs for students interested in computer maintenance, graphic design and many others. For more information, visit csschools.com or call 602-285-5555.
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A member of the GCC staff guides a student through job-finding resources available in career services. (Photo by Glendale Community College)
don’t forget to smile! If you have any questions, need more interview tips or want help in your job search, you can contact the Career
Services team at Glendale Community College. You can also attend one of their workshops. Get more information at gccaz.edu/career-services.
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Career & Education Opportunity
WINTER 2021
WINTER 2021
Career & Education Opportunity
Learn, Stay, Enjoy and Discover! PRIVATE. CHRISTIAN. AFFORDABLE.
LEARN
More than 200 academic programs in high demand employment fields.
STAY
Student-led hotel defined by world-class amenities and service.
Founded in 1949, GCU is Arizona’s premier provider of private Christian education. Today, we’ve expanded and trasformed our campus into the beating heart of an ever-growing city center. If you’re looking for family fun in the heart of the city, it’s time to experience Lope Country.
ENJOY
Modern urban cuisine of Canyon 49 Grill, championship links at GCU Golf Course and NCAA Division I home games powered by legendary Lope Nation.
DISCOVER Wide-open opportunities for career, community and business innovation.
For more information, visit gcu.edu Please note, not all GCU programs are available in all states and in all learning modalities. Program availability is contingent on student enrollment. Grand Canyon University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (800-621-7440; http://hlcommission.org/). ©2020 Grand Canyon University 20GPS0003
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The past, present and future state of water in Arizona BY SCOT ANDREWS
Peoria’s population is exploding! At 170,000 people and growing, sustaining Peoria will depend on attentiveness to critical infrastructure needs. One of these critical areas of focus is water. Learn about the state of water here in the desert we call home through a three-part Peoria Chamber of Commerce educational series sponsored by SRP (Salt River Project) , CAP (Central Arizona Project) and the city of Peoria. Learn how our waters came to be, where they come from now and what the future holds for our water supply. This three-part series will discuss how water issues will impact Peoria businesses and residents and what critical challenges lay ahead to be addressed through advocacy and action. Our first series webinar begins at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 17, on Zoom. To register, visit peoriachamber.com/ events. Throughout the series, we will hear from representatives for SRP, CAP and the city of Peoria. CAP is Arizona’s single largest resource for
Lake Pleasant, April 2, 2017, Central Arizona Project. (Photo by Philip A. Fortnam)
renewable water supplies. CAP is designed to bring roughly 1.5 million acre-feet of water from the Colorado
River to Central and Southern Arizona every year. More than 80% of the state’s population lives in Maricopa, Pima and Pinal counties, where CAP water is delivered. SRP is a community-based, not-for-profit public power utility and the largest provider of electricity in the greater Phoenix
metropolitan area, serving more than 1 million customers. SRP is also the metropolitan area’s largest supplier of water, delivering about 800,000 acrefeet annually to municipal, urban and agricultural water users. Join us as we hear from the largest water suppliers in the West Valley.
Westside Head Start offers career opportunities BY JENNIFER ADAIR
Once you take a look inside a Westside Head Start classroom, you’ll quickly see we are educating our children in an effective and innovative way. It’s much more than the content of the curriculum that is important — critical areas of focus like relationships and routines are all intended to create a safe and welcoming environment where they can grow. The schools offer programs for young students from 12 months to 5 years old for both on-site and home base options. The teachers and faculty work with children and parents to maximize the
learning potential of each student. Parents will even share positive achievements they see at home because of Head Start. Simple tasks like washing hands, gathering utensils and serving their own food help to develop motor skills and establish healthy eating habits. These are just a few examples of what makes a WSHS classroom different. Everything here serves an important purpose to prepare a child for lifelong love of learning. Westside Head Start is a growing nonprofit organization that serves all
Career...continued on page 11
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Grand Canyon University in the heart of Phoenix
WINTER 2021
Career & Education Opportunity
Private. Christian. Affordable
BY GRAND CANYON UNIVERSITY
Grand Canyon University is Arizona’s premier, private Christian university offering next-generation education with a commitment to affordability and helping students find their purpose. GCU offers over 250 academic programs, including more than 200 online programs, in many high-demand areas across nine colleges. As of fall 2020, over 23,000 ground students attend GCU’s 275 acre campus that’s growing with new residence halls, academic buildings, student support resources, state-of-the-art athletic facilities and more to provide a vibrant learning environment and well-rounded college experience. More than 85,000 online students attend GCU’s digital campus where students can collaborate with peers, interact with instructors and receive individualized attention through an innovative learning platform and in small class sizes. With over three decades of leadership experience in delivering online education, GCU offers real-world degree programs with flexibility and convenience to meet the needs of the
adult working professional. As a Christian university, GCU strives to shape students into 21st century servant leaders who are prepared to make a difference in local and global communities. GCU students learn from a faith-integrated curriculum based on a Christian worldview while learning and growing within a values-based, supportive community. Not only does GCU serve as an innovative institution elevating higher education, but the university also invests in revitalizing the local community. Leading in education and community transformation, GCU is committed to impacting the greater good by providing opportunities, giving back and fostering strong community outreach. To learn more, visit gcu.edu The information printed in this material is accurate as of FEBRUARY 2021. For the most up-to-date information about admission requirements, tuition, scholarships and more, visit gcu. edu. ©2021 Grand Canyon University 21GPS0006
Grand Canyon University’s campus. (Photo courtesy Grand Canyon University)
Launch Your Career! Apply today at catholiccharitiesaz.org/employment. Catholic Charities serves people of all faiths and backgrounds and is an equal employment opportunity employer. All candidates must meet education, background and fingerprint clearance requirements. (Photo courtesy Head Start)
Career...continued from page 10 of those, regardless of faith, across the Valley; and we are enrolling new students and families. Catholic Charities also offers a number of unique career opportunities, and we are hiring preschool teachers, assis-
tant teachers, behavioral health specialists, among many other openings — apply online at catholiccharitiesaz.org. Catholic Charities is a place where miracles happen every day in the lives of more than 22,000 individuals every year. Join us in the incredible work and be a miracle to someone today.
POSITIONS AVAILABLE: POSITIONS AVAILABLE:
BENEFIT ELIGIBLE EMPLOYEES RECEIVE:
Center Director – $44,595 - $53,497 annually • Center• Director • Health, Dental and Life Insurance Teacher/Supervisor – $19.01 - $22.52Disability per hour, full-time $44,595• -Master $53,497 annually • Short-Term Insurance Teacher — AA or BA – $18.26 - •$20.77 per hour, Paid Vacation andfull-time Sick Leave • Master• Teacher/Supervisor $19.01 -•$22.52 per hour,Teacher full-time – $12.50- $13.53 • Paid Holidays on credentials) Assistant (depending • 403 (b) Retirement • Teacher — AA or BA • Kitchen Aide/Custodian – $12.24 - $12.48 per hour,Plan part-time • Pension Retirement Plan $18.26 - $20.77 per hour, full-time • Employee Assistance Program • Assistant BENEFITTeacher ELIGIBLE EMPLOYEES RECEIVE: $12.50- $13.53 (depending on credentials)
• • • •
Health, Dental and Life Insurance Short-Term Disability Insurance Paid Vacation and Sick Leave Paid Holidays
• Kitchen Aide/Custodian
$12.24 - $12.48 per hour, part-time
• 403 (b) Retirement Plan • Pension Retirement Plan • Employee Assistance Program
Apply today at CatholicCharitiesAZ.org/employment Apply today at CatholicCharitiesAZ.org/employment
Catholic Charities serves people of all faiths and backgrounds and is an equal employment opportunity employer. Catholic Charities serves people all faiths and backgrounds andfingerprint is an equalclearance employment opportunity employer. All candidates mustofmeet education, background and requirements.
All candidates must meet education, background and fingerprint clearance requirements.
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Veterans Upward Bound is an essential program BY VETERANS UPWARD BOUND
Tyler Obermeit joined the Army after graduating high school, serving as an infantryman from 2009 until leaving the military in 2012. Though his goal was always to return to school, a tough transition to civilian life created barriers to his college degree. Obermeit ultimately overcame these obstacles through the TRIO Veterans Upward Bound program. Offered at no cost to participants, the program prepares veteran students for college through classes and tutoring, assistance with FAFSA college applications, and personal development resources. Obermeit received personalized tutoring that improved his math skills before applying to ASU. He received continued support while pursuing his degree and worked for Veterans Upward Bound as a tutor. “What’s great about the program are the small class sizes, very much tailored to your needs and what you want to accomplish,” Obermeit said. He also emphasized how helpful it
TRIO Veterans Upward Bound participant and ASU natural resource ecology major Tyler Obermeit hikes in the Superstition Wilderness. (Photo courtesy Tyler Obermeit)
was being surrounded by other veterans who were going through the same adjustment to classroom life.
Obermeit will graduate this spring with his bachelor’s in natural resource ecology and a certificate in wildlife
management from ASU’s College of Integrated Sciences and Arts. While at ASU, he earned multiple veteran scholarships, served as president of the Wildlife and Restoration Student Association, and interned with the Arizona Game and Fish Department. He credits Veterans Upward Bound and ASU with opening his eyes to the possibilities that existed for him — academically, professionally and personally. “I look back at the last few years and it’s kind of unbelievable to think of all the things I’ve accomplished. I wouldn’t be here without Veterans Upward Bound.” Obermeit feels Veterans Upward Bound is an essential program for any veteran looking to pursue their education. “No matter where they are, even if they don’t think they’re a candidate for school, it’s something every veteran should explore.” Learn more and enroll today by visiting vub.asu.edu or emailing julia. gusse@asu.edu.
GESD is committed to meeting the needs of students BY ADRIANA ALVARDO PARSONS Director of Communications Glendale Elementary School District
During the pandemic, more has been asked of our schools, staff and students than we could ever have imagined. GESD educators, family services team members and support staff have worked around the clock to implement alternative teaching methods and provide wraparound support services. Looking back in the past year, our school and information technology staff distributed at-home learning devices to families and more than 2,000 Wi-Fi hotspots to help our students participate in distance learning. We provided our community with breakfast and lunch at 17 sites, utilizing our transportation staff to deliver meals and offering curbside distributions to ensure all students have access to meals. Over the past year, 982,000 meals have been served. Through our Family Re-
sources Centers and partnership with the St. Mary’s Food Bank, GESD has provided meals and services to more than 2,500 families since March 2020. GESD has been committed to meeting the academic, social and emotional needs of our students. The provision of direct services and partnerships with various outside agencies, including Touchstone Health Services, Southwest Behavioral and La Frontera, supports us in developing a sustainable system that fosters an environment of academic excellence through innovative learning while building tomorrow’s socially responsible leaders, even while facing the challenges brought on during the pandemic. Looking ahead, GESD will continue to serve all our GESD children who are eager to learn, thrive and grow. Their optimism and enthusiasm ignite a passion in our staff that makes us “All in for All Kids.”
WINTER 2021
Career & Education Opportunity
TRIO
Veterans Upward Bound You served your country proudly. Now it’s time to honor yourself with the tools for a successful career. Veterans Upward Bound is a FREE educational program that prepares veterans to improve academic skills and transition to college.
Learn more and enroll today: VUB.ASU.EDU
Enroll in Veterans Upward Bound and receive: • Online instruction • Tutoring • Assistance with financial aid and scholarship applications • Admission assistance to postsecondary education institutions (community college, university, vocational, technical and certificate training) • Referrals to Veterans Administration information as needed
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Stop by the Airman & Family Readiness Center Career & Education Opportunity
BY THE AIRMAN & FAMILY READINESS CENTER
The Airman & Family Readiness Center at Luke Air Force Base offers a myriad workshops and other programs for DoD military, AFR, ANG, military retirees, DoD civilians and their eligible family members. In other words, anyone with base access. While visiting Luke Air Force Base, stop in and take advantage of the fabulous programs offered at your Airman & Family Readiness Center. The next annual Luke Air Force Base Job Fair will be announced at a later date and will be held at Club Five Six, 14000 W. Eagle Street, Building 161, Luke AFB. Hosted by the Airman & Family Readiness Center, the event is open to anyone who has base access. Network with more than 70 local and national employers, have on-site interviews, visit with airline industries, and inquire about health care and top gov-
ernment agencies. • Career Enhancement Programs: The Department of Labor TAP Employment Workshop is held for separating and retiring members and their spouses. The workshop details job search strategies, networking, resume writing, interviewing, VA benefits and more. The mandatory program officially started in January 2013. “Marketing Yourself for a Second Career” is a professional lecture for officers and senior NCOs leaving the military. Learn about salary negotiations, benefit packages, networking and resume writing to help compete for jobs in the marketplace. Mandatory pre-separation counsel-
AIRMAN & FAMILY READINESS CENTER MILITARY MEMBERS, DOD CIVILIANS*, RESERVE, GUARD, MILITARY RETIREES & ELIGIBLE FAMILY MEMBERS SERVICES AVAILABLE:
Monthly Dept. of Labor TAP Employment Workshop Next Career Fair to be • Discovery Center - Resources for relocation, transition, employment, housing, schools, and more! Announced • Transition Services (Active Duty to Civilian) - Mandatory Separation\Retirement\Preseperation Counseling - Mandatory 5 Day Department of Labor TAP Employment Workshop - Employment Assistance - SBA quarterly Boots to Business Workshop - Higher Education Training - Resume Writing and Federal Employment Workshops
• AMVETS – Provides medical records screening and assistance with VA disability claims • Personal Development Information & Resources - Like us on Facebook: Luke A&FRC • Military & Family Life Counselor Assistance • Financial Counseling Education • Relocation & Sponsorship Services • School Liaison Officer - Addresses educational issues involving military children and youth in the local school community
Contact us for further information: (623) 856-6550 Email: 56fss.fsfr@luke.af.mil 7282 N. 137th Ave. Bldg.1113 Luke AFB, AZ. 85309 “We’re never the wrong place to go!” *Limited Services for DoD Civilians and their families
ing briefing on separation/retirement entitlements: • Discovery Resource Center: resources for relocations, transition, employment, housing, schools and more. • AMVETS: provides medical records screening and assistance with VA disability claims • School Liaison Officer: addresses educational issues involving military children and youth in the local school community • Military & Family Life Counselor Program (MFLCs): MFLCs are here to listen and available to help service members, spouses, family members, children and staff. The MFLC Pro-
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gram provides confidential support for a range of issues, including relationships, crisis intervention, stress management, grief, occupational and other individual and family issues. • Financial Management Programs: some of these programs available to active-duty military only. • FamilyReadiness Programs. • Relocation Readiness Programs. • Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) is designed to provide support to military family members with special needs. EFMP Services include a variety of personnel, medical and family support functions.
Information
Contact Airman & Family Readiness Center for more information: 623-856-6550, e-mail 56fss.fsfr@luke.af.mil, or visit its Facebook page: Luke A&FRC. The address is 7282 N. 137th Avenue, Building 1113, Luke AFB, AZ 85309.
Diamond Jim’s offers discreet collateral loans BY ROY SCHOTT
Diamond Jim’s Director of Operations
Diamond Jim’s Jewelry Store in Sun City recently added in-house discreet collateral loan service to its business. “I’ve been thinking about the stresses facing our customers with the current economic and pandemic situations,” owner “Diamond” Jim K said. “They may need money but don’t want to sell their cherished and treasured possessions. By adding collateral loans (pawn), they are now able to get short-term loans and still retain the ownership of their jewelry. It’s a great win-win situation for everyone.” After 33 years in the jewelry business, adding collateral loans is a big plus for Diamond Jim’s business model. Diamond Jim’s has always been a local leader in the jewelry business, with
an in-house watchmaker, master goldsmith, laser-welder system and accredited jewelry professionals on staff. “We work hard at maintaining our five-star service for our customers,” he said. “We are the kind of store that our customers travel far out of their way to visit. You can expect, always, the highest level of personal service and quality; in fact, since we are experts in jewelry, customers can expect a higher valuation.”
Diamond Jim’s Jewelry Stores 10001 W. Bell Road, Sun City 623-977-2299
6005 N. 16th Street, Phoenix 602-279-0561 diamondjims4cash.com
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Career & Education Opportunity come in handy when you least expect it. Get good grades
Think about what you were good at in sequence. Many students need to take high school or skills for which you have several math courses to reach the level received recognition in the past. What are required for their major. Taking a free you curious about? Some of the college placement test at your Maricopa Com- courses offered may be surprising; for munity College (once you are an admit- example, you may not see how learning ted student) will determine your starting about banned books, rock music, or earthlevel. Again, discuss possible majors quakes and other natural disasters relate with your advisor to fi nd out if specifi c to your future. If you are intrigued by a math courses are required. If several ma- course, consider taking it! It might fulfill jors are being considered, take the high a general education requirement (as do all road by following the highest math se- three of the courses referred to above). It quence among the majors. You may end might help you with a current job or in up having taken higher math than re- your personal life. Ultimately, it may help quired, but that will serve you better than you decide if you want to turn a strength falling short and having to try to pick up or interest into a degree plan and career. where you left off when you go back to Keep your options open meet any additional requirements. If you want to play it safe and take Follow your interests courses that apply to a wide variety of & build on your strengths majors, select courses like “Introduction A good thing about college is that there to Literature” over courses like “Literaare a lot of choices. However, so many ture of Southern Wyoming.” This is also choices can be overwhelming. When helpful to remember if you are considerchoosing courses, it may not be apparent ing transferring out of state — if you take if or how the content will translate into courses offered at most colleges and uniyour career. Part of the college experi- versities, it is more likely that they will ence is becoming a well-rounded, edu- fit in somewhere on your degree plan and cated person, and what you learn may transfer to other institutions.
Don’t create a past that will come back to haunt you, when it comes to your grades. Someday, when you apply to a competitive bachelor’s degree program or graduate school, your chances for admission can be affected by poor grades in courses you didn’t take seriously enough. If you are having trouble with a class, go to tutoring, communicate with your instructor, and be aware of course withdrawal and retake policies. Also, enroll in the number of courses you can complete successfully. A common mistake for new students is taking too many courses at once in an attempt to move through college quickly. As you progress in school, you can take a heavier course load or speed things up by taking fall or winter session courses when you know what is realistic for you.
Earn an associate’s degree As an undecided student, you can still follow a degree plan at the Maricopa Community Colleges. If you plan to eventually transfer to a university to earn a bachelor’s degree, the Associate in Arts is a flexible degree that fulfills general studies requirements for Arizona’s public universities,
along with many private, out-of-state and online institutions. When you begin to consider specific majors, consult an adviser to find out if the Associate in Arts is still the best fit for you or if another type of degree, such as an Associate in Business, Associate in Science or Associate in Applied Science, aligns best with your major requirements and transfer goals. Earning an associate’s degree will formally recognize and celebrate your hard work, and can increase your marketability and earning power in the workplace.
Think of ‘for now,’ not forever
If you hold out on choosing a degree path until the perfect major comes along, you may be in school forever. While finding a rewarding career is important, moving forward with your education and working in a related position is the only way to know if want to stay a career for years to come. Keep in mind that most people do not stay in the same job for their whole career. With every step you take toward a goal, you’ll gain information to help you make future decisions.
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Career & Education Opportunity
7301 N. 58th Avenue, Glendale AZ 85301
(623) 237-7100
GLENDALE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT PANDEMIC RESPONSE BY THE NUMBERS
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gesd40.org
Cindy Segotta-Jones, Superintendent
It’s been one year since the start of the pandemic. Throughout this year, GESD remained committed to supporting our students, staff, and families. Looking back in the past year, here are a few of the services provided in response to the pandemic.
BY THE NUMERS
982,000 Meals Served
2,500 Families Served Through GESD Family Resource Centers
2,000
WiFi Hotspots Distributed