INDEPENDENCE, Iowa—Independence High School, Iowa EDGE-Boone High School and Fareway Stores, Inc. have joined together to announce the first Independence-based high school registered apprenticeship in meat cutting. The program furthers the innovative work-based learning initiatives of Iowa EDGE-Boone High School, Future Ready Iowa, and Independence High School.
“The partnership program between Independence High School and Iowa EDGE-Boone High School truly provides an edge when it comes to great jobs in the future for our students, and we are excited to offer a meat cutting apprenticeship that will provide valuable skills long-term for students,” said Michael Haden, Independence Agricultural Educator and FFA Advisor.
“The Iowa EDGE-Boone High School and Independence partnership creates a comprehensive, community-based, collaborative learning environment that helps all students find their passion through work-based learning,” said Jill Janes, Director of Innovative Learning for Boone Community School District. “We’ve partnered with Fareway to create a one-of-a-kind apprenticeship in meat cutting. Our apprentices will be able to gain job-specific culinary skills, and build core skills in communication, collaboration, and professionalism. Not only is this apprenticeship program available to serve students in Independence, but this is a scalable program, available throughout the state of Iowa, in any community where a Fareway is located.”
The model for the meat cutting registered apprenticeship program allows for a student to complete all or a part of the coursework online. Iowa EDGE-Boone High School makes the program available to high schools across the state.
“Fareway is excited to partner with Iowa EDGE-Boone High School to provide the opportunity for local students to participate in a registered apprenticeship program and develop career-ready skills,” said Abby Wiley, Independence Fareway Market Manager. “The ability to work one-on-one with a student will give them what they need to be a successful meat cutter, along with having great customer service and merchandising skills.”
Independence High School junior Katie Finnegan is the first student to sign-up for Independence’s initial registered apprenticeship program. Katie will begin her apprenticeship at the Fareway located in Independence.
About Boone Community School DistrictBoone Community School District (BCSD) is committed to ensuring all PK-12 students have necessary knowledge and skills to pursue their passions and find success. In collaboration with the Iowa Governor’s STEM Council STEM BEST program in 2017, BCSD focuses on career awareness, preparation and training to realize this vision through Boone EDGE (Empowering Desire, Guiding Experience). BCSD students from preschool to high school take part in community tours & speakers, authentic learning projects, pre-apprenticeship and internships. BCSD’s high school registered apprenticeship program, Iowa EDGE-Boone High School, is a unique example in the state of Iowa of work-based learning that helps both students and local communities grow.
About FarewayFareway Stores, Inc. is a growing Midwest grocery company currently operating 132 stores in a seven-state region. Fareway’s mission is to provide the highest quality products, while treating customers like family, and valuing dedicated employees. Its stores are known for their unmatched, full-service meat departments, farm-fresh produce, and exceptional to-your-car customer service. Fareway is a family-owned business, recognized as a top 10 employer in Iowa, and has more than 12,000 total employees. Visit Fareway.com for more information or shop online by visiting Shop.Fareway.com.
About Independence High SchoolIndependence High School, located in Independence, Iowa, has great kids doing great things every day! Students at “Indee” are involved, driven, and build habits that lead to success anywhere they go.
Pictured from left to right: Independence Fareway Market Manager Abby Wiley, Independence High School junior Katie Finnegan, Independence Agricultural Educator and FFA Advisor Michael Haden
(contributed press release, Fareway Stores, Inc)
