By: Sophia Braida
Paupack Perk is a key aspect of Wallenpaupack’s transition program and is designed to provide special needs students with important skills including employment and independence. The program targets students who have already met graduation requirements to prepare them for working environments and real-world challenges.
Since its launch in the fall of 2019, Paupack Perk has offered opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience within our district. Each morning, students make coffee for their teachers, handle deliveries, and more. During teacher appreciation week, they gave gifted teachers a free cup of coffee as a token of appreciation for helping the program function.
The coffee shop operates from 8:30 am to approximately 1:00 pm and offers a variety of beverages such as regular coffee, tea, and numerous special flavors, along with their own brewed iced tea. Students are involved in practically every part of the business from taking orders to purchasing resources and managing inventory.
The original concept of Paupack Perk was a collaborative idea. Before its creation within our district, students had taken part in similar programs outside the district. Therefore, leading to the implementation of Wallenpaupack’s own program.
By taking part in this program, students work to develop fundamental skills that are crucial for various future careers. They learn the importance of responsibility, basic customer service, and teamwork. Paupack Perk does a wonderful job at preparing students for life beyond the classroom, ensuring they are ready to face the working world with confidence.
