LaredoBuzz.Com

Courtesy Xochitl Mora,

The City of Laredo hosted their annual Co-Op Recognition Luncheon. The Co-Op training program partners the City of Laredo with seniors from various local high schools.  These students become city employees and the training sites become host to the students.  The program is intended to educate the students about real life work environments such as being on time, exposure to municipal government, advance request for time off, adherence to rules and policies, and proper work attire.

 The program runs concurrent with the school year, September through May. The City of Laredo Human Resources Department takes them through a real interview process, hiring procedures, and then assigns the student to best meet the needs of the city department.

 According to Nixon High School senior Karina Villarreal, the program has helped her to become independent and learn good customer service skills.  “I’ve gained confidence and learned how to communicate with various people – people I don’t know – whether it was answering the phone, asking questions when I didn’t know something, answering questions or talking to strangers and other directors and City Administration,” said Villarreal.  “Most especially, I’ve learned more about the City of Laredo.”

Betty Iñiguez agrees with her student.  “The difference in these students from the beginning of the year to now is like night and day,” says the Nixon High Co-Op teacher. “They are more responsible, educated, punctual, and respectful.  They are more mature and are ready to go into the real world – the business world – prepare resumes, apply and interview for jobs and take on the world.  The change is dramatic. I encourage all students to participate in this wonderful program,” she concluded.