Tamara Ross is the new coordinator of Sahuaro High School’s TSW (Transition from School to Work) program. This valuable program offers support, services, and guidance to students in grades nine through twelve who have disabilities, with a strong focus on career training and preparation for life beyond high school.
When asked how Ms. Ross came into the position of leading the TSW program, she says, “I was just looking for jobs related to education, and I came across a TSW specialist, and it caught my eye. I really like helping students succeed in life.” This sort of field, however, has always been something Ms. Ross has thought about. She reflected on a teacher from her schooling, saying, “In my high school, we had a program called JAG (Jobs for AZ Graduates).” She explained how “the teacher helped us out in ways to succeed in life, so I’ve decided to follow that path.”
The program is designed to be easily accessible for any student with a disability who is interested in applying. Students can visit Room 309, where Ms. Ross will provide them with a TSW packet containing all the necessary information for enrollment. After picking up the packet, students are expected to take it home so that a parent or guardian can review, fill out, and sign the required forms. Once the completed packet is returned to Ms. Ross, a Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) counselor will step in to work directly with the student. The counselor will use the information provided to open a case and begin guiding the student on their personalized path toward future success.
Ms. Ross is excited to start the program, saying, “It’s going to help them prepare for the future and help them advocate for themselves.” She spoke about the job opportunities available for the qualified students, including on-campus jobs such as work in the cafeteria, library, the employment center, and the Sahuaro garden, which just recently kickstarted. For off-campus jobs, they offer work at Steele Elementary, doing similar jobs to the ones offered here at Sahuaro. They also offer work at Kind Stitches, a community partnership between Ben’s Bells and TUSD. Finally, the local food bank. “We have students rotate, and it just helps them build up job skills and employment skills,” Ross says.
The TSW program is truly a game changer for Sahuaro High School and the future of our students with disabilities. Recognizing its impact, Ms. Ross has encouraged everyone around campus to help spread the word and raise awareness about the program, ensuring its message reaches as many people as possible.
