Baldwin schools launch the 'senior experience'

Baldwin school district launched “Senior Experience”, an innovative course that provides Baldwin High School seniors with a real-world professional experience.

This program integrates internships with Social Studies and English Language Arts curricula, meeting New York State Graduation requirements and aligning with the district’s 2035 initiative. 

“Blending practical experience and academic studies not only deepens students’ grasp of the subject matter but equips them to be more knowledgeable, skilled, and engaged contributors to our community,” Shari Camhi, superintendent of schools, wrote in a news release. 

Students in the Senior Experience course alternate between in-person classes and internship experience during the day, selecting internships that offer comprehensive insights into a particular career. They maintain a journal to document their experiences to eventually complete a capstone project incorporating their internship and academics together.

The program’s first year concluded with the inaugural “School2Career Showcase,” where students presented their capstone projects to families, administrators, and professionals. Baldwin High School teachers, Chris Soupios, Chris Russo, and Joe Chiaravalloti played a role in implementing the course and organizing the event showcase. 

“Seeing our students present their work in such a professional and confident manner made me very proud,” Franza wrote. “I look forward to working with our faculty and staff to continue to expand on these real-world learning opportunities.”

In addition to Senior Experience, the district offers a Senior Internship course, open to all students, which was also highlighted in the showcase event. Forty members of the Class of 2025 have already registered for next school year’s course.