Valley View STEP students showcase job training, ask Romeoville to support inclusion

Becky Robbins, an educator with the Valley View School District STEP program, told the Village of Romeoville board on March 4 that the program seeks to "provide individuals with disabilities the skills, training, and experiences they need to be successful." Robbins introduced four students who described workplace training and community partnerships that helped them gain skills and confidence.

Christine Brewer said the Romeoville community and local businesses have welcomed the program and listed several local job-training partners. Josh Velasco thanked Romeoville employers and educational sites that have supported his placements. Jack Vargas described vocational training at Joliet Junior College and on-campus paid employment with Sodexo. Heavenly Carlos said she is preparing to start a job at Scooter’s Coffee and is studying early childhood education.

Robbins asked trustees and residents to sign an inclusion banner the group brought to the meeting and noted the program is raising funds to support students’ activities. "By working together, we can create an environment where individuals with disabilities are valued, included, and given the same opportunities as everyone else," Robbins said.

Why it matters: The STEP program connects students with disabilities to local employers and education partners, offering on‑the‑job training and life skills that trustees said benefit the broader community. The board and mayor publicly praised the program and invited continued collaboration. The presentation concluded with photos and brief remarks from trustees.

The board did not take formal action on the presentation; STEP representatives provided contact information and asked volunteers and businesses to consider hosting or hiring program participants.