The Vocational Training Program uses a strength-based approach. This involves identifying each student’s strengths and choosing activities that engage their talents, skills, interests and ambitions. Skill sets and areas of interest are identified by a series of approaches: career interest inventories, individual educational plans and interviews with the student, parents, teachers and support staff. 

Objectives of the vocational trainings include promoting better communication skills and positive social behavior through the process of engaging in positive and constructive feedback. Students will strengthen their problem solving skills, allow them to develop better cognitive reasoning skills, and assist in the development of positive peer to peer relationships. Additionally, students will gain self-confidence which will aide and assist their ability to self manage behavioral problems, both individually and in group settings.

Examples of classes being taught are:

• Landscaping – students will learn to enhance and maintain the appearance of a landscape by altering its contours and planting trees, flowers and shrubs for aesthetic effects.
• Theatrical & Video Production – students will work with the vocational and music departments to write, create and direct various plays.  Students will learn to digitally edit footage, add sound tracks, work with lighting equipment, write and direct their own productions, and will have opportunity to publish their projects on YOU TUBE and the Esperanza’s website.
• Janitorial & Building Maintenance – students will learn how to clean and maintain buildings and property. They will discuss how to prioritize work-related maintenance requests, and will have the opportunity to acquire hands-on experience by working with maintenance staff. Students will learn how to use various tools that are considered standard by working professional.
• Career Building – discussion groups will be held to discuss appropriate attire, hygiene, resumes, reviewing job listings and interview skills.