District reports internship program success: 37 of 41 seniors participated

Rockport’s first full-year internship model finished this spring with broad student participation, district staff said at the school committee meeting on May 21.

Internship program coordinator Eric Vent said 41 graduating seniors were eligible and 37 participated in internships or special projects this year. "As you see the numbers there, 41 graduating seniors, 37, 37 of them participated in an internship or a special project in some way," Vent said, and reported that students averaged about 25 hours per week compared with a 30-hour benchmark. Vent described logistical "hiccups" including timeline compression in the weeks before placements, and said the district will refine steps and communication next year.

Three students who completed internships — Madison Slier, Adrianna Legitisi and Lawson — shared experiences ranging from clinical observation at Addison Gilbert Rehabilitation Center to a clinical-study role at a skincare company and in-school mentorship programming. Madison said her work at Addison Gilbert "was a completely new experience," stressing hands-on patient interaction and that the placement confirmed her career interest. Adrianna described observing a clinical study in Beverly and gaining mentor relationships; Lawson described a student-led mentorship initiative and student-advisory elections.

Committee members thanked the students and staff and asked for advice for future interns; students emphasized time management, planning and going into internships with an open mind. Vent said the district will use lessons learned to adjust timelines and communications to reduce last-minute rushes.