Between a few dozen businesses in Byron, and in twice as many roles, there is a practical, hands-on program creating hope and tangible opportunity for students with special needs. Spearheaded by Janelle Smith and Caryn Hoover, the Byron High School Work Program aims to help students transition from the classroom to the workforce by providing them with practical job skills and opportunities. The program, now in its 15th year, ensures that students with individualized education programs (IEPs) can gain invaluable experience before they age out of the school system at 22.

Janelle Smith, Director of Special Services, explains that the program has its roots in community values and a belief in giving every student the chance to succeed. “Our focus shifts as students turn 18 or 19,” she says. “Instead of concentrating solely on academics, we start preparing them for adulthood by teaching them functional and job skills. By the time they leave us, they’ve had hands-on work experience.”

For Caryn Hoover, a veteran of the Byron School District who has worked in various educational roles for almost 30 years, the program is not just a job—it’s a passion. “I work closely with local businesses to build partnerships that give our students real-world job opportunities,” Caryn says. “We start small, with in-house jobs at the school, and as students gain confidence, we branch out to local businesses.”

The program offers students the chance to develop a variety of skills based on their interests. Whether working in local businesses, volunteering at the Byron Chamber of Commerce, or handling internal school tasks, students gain experience and confidence. “Each student's journey is individualized,” Janelle says. “We look at interest inventories, assess their abilities, and match them with jobs that will work for them.”

While some students may find paid employment through the program, the main goal is for students to develop the skills they need to succeed in the future. Caryn has worked with a range of employers, from local grocery stores to event planners, all of whom have embraced the opportunity to support the students. “The community has been incredible,” Caryn adds. “We’ve built strong relationships with local business owners, and they’ve been so willing to step up and help.”

One of the most rewarding aspects of the program is watching students grow and thrive in these work environments. “We’ve had several instances where students were hired permanently after completing the program,” Janelle shares proudly. “One of our students went on to work in a local business for several years after graduating from the program. Seeing that happen is so fulfilling.”

For many employers, the Work Program has been an unexpected blessing. “I’ve had employers ask me, ‘Can we have another student next year?’” Caryn says with a smile. “The students bring something special to the workplace, and the employers appreciate that. In fact, sometimes they reach out to me, asking if we have anyone who could fill a certain position.”

The program is also about more than just work skills—it’s about giving students the tools they need for independence. “We want them to leave the program not just with job experience but also with confidence,” Caryn says. “Whether it’s learning to work on a team, handling time management, or developing communication skills, these are things that will serve them in every aspect of life.”

Running such a program in a small town like Byron can present challenges. “Byron is a small community, so we don’t have a lot of big businesses,” Janelle explains. “But we’ve managed to tap into the resources we have, and over the years, we’ve worked with many businesses in town.”

At the heart of the program’s success is the bond that Janelle and Caryn share, both as colleagues and as sisters. “We’ve lived in this community since we were kids, and we both graduated from Byron,” Caryn says. “We love this place, and it’s special to be able to give back to the community that raised us.”

Their personal connection only strengthens the program. “It helps that we can communicate really well,” Janelle adds. “Of course, we have our moments, but for the most part, we’re a great team.”

As the Work Program continues to evolve, Caryn and Janelle have their sights set on expanding opportunities for students, including adding more employers and making the program even more accessible. “Our biggest hope is that we can continue growing this program and making sure that every student who goes through it leaves feeling prepared for the future,” Janelle says.

For the students of Byron High School, the Work Program represents more than just a path to a job—it’s a bridge to independence, confidence, and a brighter future.