To the Editor:

On behalf of the Special Education Department of Wetzel County Schools, we express our sincerest appreciation to some area businesses that have contributed to the education of several of our students. The Community Based Work Study Program is an opportunity for many students to learn valuable work skills in an actual community business setting, thus utilizing the business as a “classroom.” With the generous support and donation of quality time provided by these employers, our students have gained many important skills such as organization, time management, self-confidence, work ethics, and self initiative. These skills have added greatly to their employability in the “real world.”

Participating businesses this year were: Wetzel County Animal Shelter, The Dog Palace, Mayo’s Exxon, New Martinsville Health Care Center, Lock Your Heart on Kids, Wetzel County Hospital, Tractor Supply, Wetzel County Bus Garage, Wetzel County Center for Children and Families, Wetzel County Board of Education Office, Little Lambs Pre School at the NMUMC, Choo Choo’s Captain Richards, Salvation Army, Simon’s Market in Pine Grove, and REM Community Options.

Again, we would like to say thank you to these local businesses. You have truly made a difference in these students’ lives. If your business would like to participate in this worthwhile program, please contact me at 304-455-3014 or 304-771-0878.

Sincerely,

JoDell Ritchea

Wetzel County Schools Job Coach