STAGES Spotlight on Valez

My name is Valez, and I love the weather.

I learned how to ride the bus with Mark Sheppard. I now know I need a bus pass to ride the bus.  I like the program STAGES, because it teaches me how to take responsibility for myself.  We do computer assignments and last week we had to look up dictionary words.  I went to argos and the Recycling Plant for job interviews.  We also deliver subways to some of the employees here at USF.  On a Friday night I went to Brothers Pizza to meet the Best Buddies and my classmates.  I now have a Best Buddy; his name is Omar.  I am looking forward to do more job interviews and hope to find a job.

My advice to students who are coming to STAGES:  try to be nice to people.  I am sad that I am leaving STAGES, because it reminds me how I felt leaving high school.  I will miss my job and eating there for free.  I will miss talking to friends.  Every morning when I come to class, I will miss saying good morning and shaking hands with everyone.

Updated May 2007

From the parent: "I am very impressed that Valez is able to take the bus by himself.  Valez also tells me that he uses the computer every day at STAGES.  He enjoys his teachers.  When Valez comes home, he always tells me that the school is excellent.  He wants to see more exciting events in the program.  The Best Buddies need to have more times to get together."