Career and Technical Education


Human Services

 

Our Human Services courses prepare students for careers in the profession including social services, public safety, child development, early childhood education, health careers, and geriatrics. An important part of our Human Services program focuses on internships in the community.


Courses

Human and Professional Services I

This course begins with the exploration of self and community, moving into the social issues of other cultures. Students will learn about human development, ethics, social issues, and conflict resolution. Students will have internships three days each week and are in the classroom two days each week. Internships are self-selected and provide the student with experience in at least two area agencies of their choice. May result in three college Human Services credits for qualified students. May earn three college credits per course from the Community College of Vermont.

Human and Professional Services II

Build on skills learned in Human and Professional Services I with an emphasis on providing services to individuals and families in all development stages. Expands the exploration of social issues, ethics, conflict resolution, human development, criminal justice, and geriatric issues. Students serve internships three days each week and are in the classroom environment two days each week. Internships are self-selected and longer in length than Human and Professional Services I. Along with skill development, a secondary goal of these internships is to enhance student preparation for post-secondary life—career or college. May earn three college credits per course from the Community College of Vermont.


Career Opportunities

 

Career opportunities in human services span across various categories and offer a wide range of roles focused on assisting individuals and communities.

 

These career opportunities in human services provide meaningful work focused on assisting and supporting individuals, families, and communities across various stages and circumstances of life. Professionals in this field make a positive impact by promoting well-being, providing care and guidance, and advocating for the needs of vulnerable populations.

 

Here are descriptions of career opportunities in each of the specified categories.

Occupations Requiring Less Than a Baccalaureate Degree

Residential Advisor: Residential advisors work in group homes, shelters, or residential facilities, providing support and guidance to individuals living in these settings. They assist with daily living activities, promote community engagement, and ensure a safe and supportive environment.

 

Social and Human Services Assistant: Social and human services assistants support social workers and other professionals in providing client services. They may help clients with completing paperwork, accessing community resources, and coordinating appointments.

 

Social Services Worker: Social services workers provide direct assistance to individuals and families in need. They assess clients’ needs, develop service plans, connect them with resources, and advocate for their well-being.

 

Emergency and Relief Worker: Emergency and relief workers respond to crises and provide assistance during emergencies or natural disasters. They offer immediate support, coordinate resources, and help individuals and communities recover from traumatic events.

 

Adult Day Care Coordinator: Adult day care coordinators oversee programs that provide care and support services to older adults or individuals with disabilities during the day. They manage daily operations, coordinate activities, and ensure the well-being of program participants.

 

Adult Day Care Worker: Adult day care workers assist and support participants in adult day care programs. They help with personal care, organize recreational activities, facilitate social interactions, and provide companionship.

 

Child Life Educator: Child life educators work in hospitals and healthcare settings to support children and families during medical procedures or hospital stays. They use play and educational techniques to reduce stress, explain procedures, and promote emotional well-being.

 

Community Housing Service Worker: Community housing service workers assist individuals and families in accessing and maintaining safe and affordable housing. They provide information and resources, assist with applications, and offer support to promote housing stability.

 

Community Service Director: Community service directors oversee community-based programs and initiatives that address social issues and promote well-being. They develop and manage programs, collaborate with stakeholders, and ensure effective service delivery.

Occupations Requiring Baccalaureate Degree

Career Counselor: Career counselors assist individuals in exploring career options, making career decisions, and developing job search skills. They provide guidance on educational paths, assess skills and interests, and offer support throughout the career development process.

 

Child Life Specialist: Child life specialists work in healthcare settings to support children and families facing medical challenges. They provide emotional support, prepare children for medical procedures, and create therapeutic activities to promote coping and well-being.

 

Dietitian: Dietitians assess nutritional needs, develop personalized meal plans, and educate individuals or groups on proper nutrition and healthy eating habits. They work in various settings, including hospitals, schools, and community organizations.

 

Employment Counselor: Employment counselors assist individuals in finding and securing employment. They help with job searches, resume writing, interview preparation, and offer career guidance to support clients in achieving their employment goals.

 

Licensed Professional Counselor: Licensed professional counselors provide therapeutic services to individuals, couples, families, or groups. They assess mental health needs, develop treatment plans, and offer counseling to promote emotional well-being and personal growth.

 

Marriage and Family Counselor: Marriage and family counselors specialize in working with couples and families to address relationship issues and improve communication and problem-solving skills. They provide therapy, facilitate discussions, and offer guidance on strengthening relationships.

 

Social Worker: Social workers assist individuals, families, and communities in addressing social and emotional challenges. They assess needs, provide counseling and support, connect clients with resources, and advocate for social justice and well-being.

 

Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor: Vocational rehabilitation counselors help individuals with disabilities in achieving employment and vocational goals. They assess abilities, provide career guidance, offer job placement assistance, and coordinate support services to enhance vocational success.


Faculty

Jennifer McGarvin

Human Services Instructor

 

Jennifer McGarvin joined St. Johnsbury Academy in 2016 to teach Human Services. She previously worked as a social worker and in law enforcement as a police officer and detective sergeant. Mrs. McGarvin received a BA from the University of Vermont and an MA from Springfield College.