holly.opatick@cchmc.org

all messages by user

4/18/2024 Topic: A Job Search Break Holly Opatick	Hi there You do not have to document this situation in the member portal, but we recommend not stopping the job search. The intern can be upfront about a vacation with an employer during the interview, additionally, the average time from interview to job start date is 60 days. If the job search stops now, it is not guaranteed to restart in July. The gap can be very detrimental to the intern and the skill gain. If the intern is ready to interview, I encourage you to have a frank conversation with the family.
4/29/2024 Topic: Job Description/qualifications Holly Opatick	Hello The following is the official guidance from Project SEARCH regarding adult instructors. Adult Instructors • Must have training, experience, and a background in adult basic education, special education, rehabilitation, or a related field that meets the Project SEARCH model. • Are not required to have a special education license or teacher certification. I have attached some documents for further guidance.
5/8/2024 Topic: Project SEARCH Certificates Holly Opatick	Hello Certificate samples attached to this message
5/15/2024 Topic: Project SEARCH Certificates Holly Opatick	Deb Baker-Moody wrote: Holly, Where do I find the requirements for successful completion of Project SEARCH? I need the attendance requirement and internship requirement. Thanks, Deb
5/15/2024 Topic: Project SEARCH Certificates Holly Opatick	Thank you for the question, Deb. Project SEARCH’s measure for program completion is finishing 2 internships. Please know that Project SEARCH does not have an attendance rate per se, but we suggest that interns attend 80% of each internship or follow the host business attendance policy.
6/6/2024 Topic: Spanish Resources Holly Opatick	Oh my goodness! It's always exciting to share helpful tips and tricks. Whether it's a life hack or a tech shortcut, these little nuggets of wisdom can make everyday tasks easier and more enjoyable. Thank you for this useful tidbit!
6/6/2024 Topic: interns hired Holly Opatick	Hi Trish National Project SEARCH statistics from 21-22 show that 40% of host businesses hired interns. I am sure that there is a way on the back end to tease out that information from all the data collected, but it is not something that we focus on as the goal of Project SEARCH is overall employment. The host business should provide access to hiring opportunities but is under no obligation to hire interns.
6/13/2024 Topic: Amazon UK Holly Opatick	Hello There are 5 other Amazon sites in the UK. If you contact George, your program specialist, he should be able to provide you with the contact information of the 5 other instructors. They may not be checking this on the regular
6/17/2024 Topic: Project Search Classroom Holly Opatick	Hi there The following training room guidelines are in the Member Portal Toolkit Essential documents. Search for "room" and the document will populate: Project SEARCH Training Room/Classroom Guidelines Room size should be approximately 20 x 20 or larger and be adequate for 12 interns and staff: allowing for wheelchairs Several small worktables and chairs that are easy to move Space for the instructor and skills trainer in a separate area, if possible A private cubicle will facilitate private conversations Locked cabinet for paper files and personal items Laptop or desktop computers Ideally 3 or more per cohort to be used by interns, skills trainers, and instructor Wall space for photos and learning posters/boards White board or smart board Access to a conference room/area for employment planning meetings, IEP meetings, etc. Equipment recommended includes: Printer/Copier Laminator Computer for instructor Computers for interns Small refrigerator or access to a refrigerator for intern lunches Microwave or access to a microwave Cabinets for storage Whiteboard
8/19/2024 Topic: Microsoft Excel Holly Opatick	Toolkit Essential Documents Internships Internship Evaluation (the 2nd document and the only Excel document ) See the screenshot attached!
9/15/2024 Topic: Intern Agreement Holly Opatick	Hello, the last page of the Project SEARCH application may be what you are looking for.
9/15/2024 Topic: Graduation Holly Opatick	Hello, if you use the list view in the video library and search for the term "graduation," you will find some examples of Project SEARCH graduations. I watched three of them this morning . edited by holly.opatick@cchmc.org on 9/15/2024
10/23/2024 Topic: Change in PS leadership at site - now what!? Holly Opatick	Hi Nikki. I have forwarded your email to Carly Detlefsen, she is your National Program Specialist. She can assist you with your question. However, you are listed as the Program Site Database Coordinator, so you have the power to add and edit contacts. If you click on the Instrcutions tab on the left side of Member Portal page you will see directionson how to add the person to the portal.
10/23/2024 Topic: Project SEARCH logo colors Holly Opatick	Hi there Kyle, from the Project SEARCH Business Office is going to create a new document with the HEX numbers and we will have both to offer. Stay tuned!
10/24/2024 Topic: Project SEARCH logo colors Holly Opatick	A new document attached with HEX numbers
10/31/2024 Topic: letterhead Holly Opatick	Hi Kathy Could you please specify which letterhead you're referring to? Each program is encouraged to design its own unique logo banner for use on letterhead and other promotional materials. Please let me know if you have something else in mind.
11/20/2024 Topic: Internship Reveal Holly Opatick	Please remember that reveal activities should Incorporate Company Culture and follow workplace practices. Please do not include activities that would not be a part of normal workplace activities: Showcase the company's values and mission through the reveal activities. The original intention of the internship reveal was to mimic match day at hospitals. Here are some fun and engaging internship reveal activities to excite your interns Reveal Activities: Interactive Reveal: Create a scavenger hunt or puzzle that leads to the internship reveal. Video Reveal: Produce a short video showcasing the internship highlights and team members. Virtual Reveal: Use a virtual platform with interactive elements like breakout rooms. Post-Reveal Activities: Welcome Lunch: Host a casual gathering for interns and mentors to meet each other and the team. Icebreaker Activities: Plan a casual icebreaker activity, such as a team-building exercise or a virtual coffee chat, to help interns get to know their department mentor Department Tour: Give interns a guided tour of the department and introduce them to key department members These ideas maintain the excitement of a reveal while adhering to workplace norms and company culture. By focusing on a formal announcement and integration into the company's routine, you can create a memorable and professional experience for your interns.
12/10/2024 Topic: Motivation and rewards Holly Opatick	Small rewards can go a long way in boosting intern motivation. Here are some ideas: *Tangible Rewards:* *Company Swag:* Branded merchandise like t-shirts, mugs, or tech accessories. *Food and Snacks:* A catered lunch, snacks, or a gift card to a local food delivery service. *Intangible Rewards:* *Public Recognition:* A shout-out in a team meeting or company-wide email. *Personalized Feedback:* A handwritten note or a one-on-one meeting to discuss their progress and potential. *Experiential Rewards:* *Team-Building Activities:* Organizing team-building events like escape rooms, cooking classes, or volunteer work. *Shadowing Opportunities:* Allowing them to shadow other employees in different departments. Remember, the best rewards are those that are meaningful and personalized. By taking the time to understand your interns' interests and motivations, you can choose rewards that will inspire them.
3 days ago Topic: Disciplinary Form Holly Opatick	Hello Attached is a general disciplinary action form. Project SEARCH recommends consulting with your host business to ensure the form aligns with their existing forms and policies. Best case scenario you modify their form. Furthermore, we encourage the Steering Committee to provide input on the form.