Since 1999, Ann Curcio, Vocational Specialist with the Bridgeport Board of Education, has changed lives through her work with the most challenged special needs students in the City’s system. Recognizing the crying need for a job skills training effort for these students, Ms. Curcio embarked on what is now a 15-year collaboration with the Junior Achievement Job Shadow Program. During those 15 years, more than 1300 students with special education and learning challenges have been able to develop needed skills to enter the workforce upon graduation from high school.

For the past three years, Ms. Curcio has worked alongside Dennis Oliphant, Greenhouse Manager of Pivot Ministries in Bridgeport, to provide hands-on skills in horticulture and gardening. They are truly learning by doing. By adapting the traditional JA Company Program to meet the skill levels of the students, this Advisor team has guided the Roaring Lions Enterprises JA Company through the formation, management and conclusion of three successful company cycles. The happiest part for the Achievers – the dividend payout at the end of the year!

Seen here (Photo 1) are Ms. Curcio and Mr. Oliphant with sophomore Achiever Laquan Thompson who is preparing material for planters. Photo 2 features the Roaring Lions Enterprises Achievers hard at work in the Pivot greenhouse, readying their products for sale. Photo 3 showcases Ms. Curcio and several Achievers working at their Mother’s Day/Spring plant sale at Bassick High School in Bridgeport, CT.