Anslee, a motivated young adult, was referred to the Concho Valley Workforce Solutions WIOA Out-of-School Youth (OSY) program after recently relocating to San Angelo, Texas from Roby, Texas. Prior to enrollment, Anslee had gained work experience in fast food establishments and with a graphic design company. While these roles helped her build foundational workplace skills, Anslee had a clear long-term vision: to pursue a degree in psychology and ultimately become a child therapist or school counselor.
During career planning with her Career Navigator (CN), Anslee expressed a strong interest in working with children as a way to gain relevant, hands-on experience aligned with her future goals. Together, they identified a Work Experience (WEX) opportunity that would support her career pathway. The CN successfully coordinated a 12-week WEX placement with the San Angelo Early Childhood Center, where Anslee began working as an Early Childhood Aide.
In this role, Anslee quickly demonstrated her dedication and natural ability to connect with children. Her responsibilities included assisting the lead teacher with daily lesson activities and play-based learning, supervising children during classroom activities, recess, and transitions, and ensuring a safe and nurturing environment at all times. She also helped children manage emotions, resolve conflicts, and build confidence through encouragement and positive reinforcement. Additionally, Anslee worked closely with teaching staff and shared observations regarding children’s progress and development.
Now in her eighth week of the WEX placement, Anslee has already made a strong impression on her employer. Haley, a representative from the San Angelo Early Childhood Center, has maintained biweekly communication with the CN and provided consistently positive feedback. She shared that Anslee “always arrives on time, has a great attitude, and is amazing—handling any task thrown at her. Even on hard days, she performs wonderfully in her role.”
Due to her outstanding performance, professionalism, and passion for working with children, Anslee has been offered a full-time position upon completion of her WEX placement—an exciting milestone that marks the beginning of her career pathway in child development and behavioral health.
Anslee’s journey highlights the impact of targeted work-based learning opportunities through the WIOA program. With continued support and her strong commitment to her goals, Anslee is well on her way to achieving her dream of becoming a child therapist or school counselor.
