Pathways to Independence Program

Thursday, May 15, 2014 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Amherst Regional High School 21 Mattoon Street Amherst, MA 01002

The Pathways to Independence Program (PIP) at Amherst Regional High School will host local dignitaries, community vocational partners and district administrators on May 15.

The visit will provide guests the opportunity to learn about PIP, tour the newly renovated classroom and life skills areas and meet with participating students and staff. State Representative Ellen Story, DESE Connecting Activities coordinator Shailah Stewart, Collaborative for Educational Services (CES) Executive Director William Diehl, and Superintendent Maria Geryk will be among the participants.

ARHS Vocational Coordinator Crystal Cartwright and Matt Rigney, CES Coordinator for Youth and Adult Services, planned this visit through their work during CES School to Work quarterly meetings.

Mr. Rigney states, “This visit is very important for all involved – staff, students and local legislators. In addition, CES awarded a $500.00 grant to the PIP vocational program for utilizing the Massachusetts Work Based Learning Plan.” Ms. Cartwright adds, “The Connecting Activities funding supports the development of all PIP students. It’s critical to keep our program on the legislative radar because it plays a significant role in both workforce development and education.”

Please contact Crystal Cartwright at cartwrightc@arps.org with questions or concerns.