Whittier Tech Students Learn on the Job Through Cooperative Education Program
Cindy Dos Santos, right, a junior Dental Assisting student from Haverhill, poses with Dr. Thinh Do Duy at her co-op job at Hassey Do Duy Dental Associates in Methuen. (Photo Courtesy Whittier Tech)
Superintendent Maureen Lynch and Vocational Coordinator Paul Moskevitz share the ongoing success of Whittier’s Tech’s Cooperative Education program, which gives students valuable experience in their trade before they graduate.
About 200 of the 314 members of the Senior Class are participating in the co-op program this semester, about 65 percent. Another 75 juniors also are participating.
All students in good standing are eligible to participate starting with Term 3 in their junior year, with approval by their vocational teachers. Students alternate schoolwork with paid employment in their chosen technical field. The students are matched with local businesses, where they learn in-depth from professionals.
“Many of our students have great experiences on their co-op job,” Coordinator Moskevitz said. “They work alongside professionals and can network with co-workers and clients. Some students even find a job waiting for them upon graduation.”
Kaleb Adrien-Moise, a senior Plumbing student from Haverhill, is working as an apprentice plumber with CityWide Plumbing and Heating in North Reading. “Since choosing Whittier Tech I knew that a big part of my high school experience would be cooperative employment,” he said. “Co-op is a great thing because it helps you get on your feet in the industry while you are still in high school.”
DEI Systems in Tewksbury, an electrical contractor, hosts students David Garcia, a senior from Haverhill, and Chad Smith, a senior from Haverhill. “It’s a good opportunity that not many high school students have,” Smith said. “I’m looking forward to earning money while also earning As, and learning my trade.”
“Cooperative education is a vital part of preparing students for a career after Whittier,” Superintendent Lynch said. “About 140 cooperative employers support our mission, and we are grateful for their assistance in training the next generation of the workforce."
Parents or students interested in learning more about the Cooperative Education program are asked to visit https://whittiertech.org/coop.
Employers interested in hosting co-op student are asked to contact the Vocational Coordinator’s Office at 978-373-4101, ext. 267, or by emailing pmoskevitz@whittiertech.org.
Isabella Laboy, left, and Angeleena Gomez, senior Culinary students from Haverhill, working their co-op jobs in the Whittier Tech cafeteria. (Photo Courtesy Whittier Tech)