In Appreciation
Dear Editor: As part of an ongoing partnership between Sitka High School, Southeast Independent Living (SAIL) and Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) we would like to thank the local businesses that have supported us recently.
The program includes students who experience a disability and centers around learning employment skills for the future. We cover things like how to complete an application, where to go in your community for help, what local businesses can offer you and the many jobs available in Sitka – both now and after high school.
Prior to school closures, we were making visits to local businesses to ask questions and see in person what services they offer to our community. Since closures we have been taking these tours virtually as a class. This requires that a business owner be willing to schedule a time to talk to us, download the application to get connected and join us in class to give a virtual tour and answer student led questions.
Business owners are busy and have a lot on their plates these days, and yet we are able to find people ready and willing to give back to their community in this way! Wow, we love Sitka businesses! We would like to thank The Fortress of the Bear (Wow! What a nice, new set up they have!), Alaska State Parks, HPR Recreation Area, Southeast Aquaculture Association, SEARHC Environmental Services and Kitchen Crew, Sitka Swirls, Alaska Fish and Game, the Salty Spoke, the Raven’s Hook Art Supplies, Sitka Conservation Society and Sitka 4-H, Alaska Longline Fishermen’s Association, University of Alaska Southeast welding department, and many more who have joined us in the fall.
A big thank you to all these businesses for their support of local students. What an amazing place to live, work and grow up.
Meggan Turner,
Sitka High School
Joel Hanson & Maria Sakowski,
Southeast Alaska Independent Living
