Sunset Valley Career Program Builds Confidence and Skills
Norwin Works! Barkery
Sunset Valley Career Program Builds Confidence and Skills
Following overwhelmingly positive feedback from students, parents, and teachers, Sunset Valley Elementary has expanded its 4th Grade Career Jobs Program for the current school year. Launched last fall, the program has quickly become a transformative experience— boosting student confidence, building responsibility, and fostering independence both at school and at home. Parents report that students are taking on more responsibilities such as helping with chores, managing their morning routines, and showing increased initiative in daily tasks. Teachers see greater participation and leadership in the classroom, while students share genuine excitement about their roles and the real-world skills they’ re gaining.
In addition to the original positions— Librarian, Artist, Teacher, Secretary, and News Reporter— the program now offers a wider range of career opportunities. The Campus Safety Patrol helps monitor hallways, assist younger students, and support emergency drills. Environmental Stewards manage the school’ s recycling efforts, care for classroom plants, and lead sustainability projects. Peer Tutoring Coordinators work with younger grades by providing reading support and homework help, while the Event Planning Team organizes assemblies, spirit weeks, and
special celebrations in collaboration with school administration. Technology Support Assistants troubleshoot devices, assist with digital presentations, and help peers with computer skills. Cafeteria Customer Service Representatives greet visitors, assist with meal distribution, and collect feedback to improve the dining experience. Office Administration Assistants support morning routines, deliver messages between classrooms, and assist with schoolwide communication.
The program now meets twice per six-day cycle, giving students more time to engage with their chosen careers. Students continue to earn“ career cash,” and the reward system now includes certificates and special recognition during morning announcements. The News and Design Team recently covered the Veterans Day Program and hopes to expand its work into the school newsletter and district website.
As it enters its second year, Sunset Valley Elementary remains committed to offering hands-on experiences that empower students with meaningful responsibilities. The 4th Grade Career Jobs Program continues to show that when students are trusted to make a difference, they rise to the challenge with enthusiasm, confidence, and pride.
orwin
NORWIN SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS
22 NORWIN
The Norwin Works! Barkery is a hands-on learning initiative where Work-Based Learning students gain valuable experience by creating small-batch dog treats with simple, highquality ingredients. Through each step of the process— from measuring and mixing to baking, packaging, and quality checking— students build practical skills that translate to real-world workplace expectations.
The initiative offers students opportunities to practice teamwork, follow multi-step procedures, manage production timelines, and take pride in creating a finished product. Along the way, they learn responsibility, problem-solving, and the importance of quality and consistency.
Norwin Works! Barkery
Students have developed six varieties of treats, each one tested and approved by the dogs of Norwin students and staff. Months of refining recipes and perfecting techniques have given students firsthand insight into product development and continuous improvement.
Community members who would like to learn more about the Barkery can scan the accompanying QR code. As students continue to explore new ideas and expand their skills, the offerings will grow and evolve with them.