Student Training and Employment Program (STEP)

The STEP program is a unique and exciting program that gives students who are blind or visually impaired an opportunity to develop valuable skills and learn the fundamentals of finding and keeping a job.

The Student Training and Employment Program (STEP) offers high school students who are blind or visually impaired the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of finding and keeping a job. Bosma Enterprises, in partnership with the Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired, offers a well-balanced schedule of classroom learning, work experience, and fun recreational activities. 

There may be a minimal cost to the students or family for some recreational activities.

Eligibility

High school students who are blind or visually impaired and:

• Are Indiana residents
• Age 16-21
• Exhibit independent, age-appropriate self-help, daily living, and social interaction skills
• Commit to participate in one complete session
• Priority is given to students in their junior or senior year

Areas of Instruction

Each student will learn job-readiness skills, including how to:

• Understand employer expectations
• Identify personal employment strengths and barriers
• Discover simple adaptations to perform work tasks
• Identify career paths and job goals
• Complete job applications
• Write a résumé 
• Participate in mock interviews
• Develop a portfolio for future career development

Additional Services

EMPLOYMENT  Students are placed in summer jobs with the assistance of a job coach. The job coach accompanies students to the job site and assists with training. Students are paid minimum wage for hours worked.

HOUSING  Students are housed at the Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired in Indianapolis. Lodging and most meals are provided by program sponsors.

RECREATION  Students help plan the on and off campus recreational activities that include opportunities to practice social and dining skills, as well as develop individual and group leisure activities.