Doggie Dots: Empowering Students with Disabilities Through Entrepreneurship

        

At Aloha High School, the specialized programs are staffed by dedicated and inspirational individuals in their field. As a Paraeducator who has witnessed their devotion over the past few weeks, I can attest that despite limited resources and staffing shortages, these teachers not only persevere but excel. They are committed to providing inclusive and empowering educational opportunities for all students, believing that every student deserves to develop essential job readiness skills and explore their full potential in a supportive environment. This commitment is evident both in the classroom and in the interpersonal relationships between students and teachers

Currently, the staff are spearheading an initiative to empower 50-60 students with disabilities by equipping them with job readiness skills and fostering independence, confidence, and a sense of belonging within our school community through school-based businesses. One such venture, Doggie Dots, has already materialized in the SRC classroom.

    Doggie Dots is a dog treat business designed to teach students crucial life and job readiness skills while also generating funds for their field trips and classroom supplies. Under the guidance of their teacher, students learn a variety of skills including food preparation, product packaging, and money handling. This initiative stemmed from a simple idea and a recognition of the need for students to gain exposure to real-world job skills, emphasizing the importance of preparing students for independent

living.

Excitingly, the success of Doggie Dots has inspired the school to embark on new projects with the support of the community and the dedication of the SCC teacher. Funds have been raised to establish student-run enterprises such as a coffee cart and a screen printing business. These initiatives offer invaluable opportunities for students and are a testament to the hard work and dedication of the teachers who prioritize the success of their students above all else.

This program is not only transformative for the students involved but also serves as a model for inclusive education. In many cases, secondary education for students with disabilities fails to adequately prepare them for post-school life, often directing them towards, as stated in an article about student transitions, “sheltered workshops and segregated living arrangements”. However, the teachers at Aloha High School are challenging this status quo by empowering their students to strive for independence and fulfilling work.

As we strive to support these students in their endeavors, I encourage you to learn more about the program and explore ways to get involved through the link provided below. 

Fundraiser:[https://fundrazr.com/AHS_DoggieDots_2024?ref=ab_6tZ1oRlvAYl6tZ1oRlvAYl]

YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/LBi6OQnxGI0?feature=shared