High school seniors Madison Blackburn, Joanna Watson, and Skyler Bentley are entering the workforce with a distinct advantage thanks to a unique clinical work experience at Pike Central High School. Through Prosper Appalachia, a division of the Eastern Kentucky Concentrated Employment Program (EKCEP), the three students served as peer mentors, gaining professional skills that underscore the value of early career exploration.
Working within Mrs. Wright’s Life Management classroom, Blackburn, Watson, and Bentley supported students with various disabilities. As peer mentors, they played a vital role in helping their classmates feel included and capable, both academically and socially. Their daily responsibilities included modeling appropriate behaviors, guiding students through class transitions, and assisting with routines in a peer-friendly manner.
The experience allowed the mentors to bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional application. Helping their peers participate in school events and extracurriculars built a sense of belonging that strengthened the social culture of the school.
In a post-program questionnaire, the students reflected on their growth.
“Being trusted with responsibility helps you feel more capable in school, work, and life,” they shared. “Helping someone succeed creates a meaningful connection and pride in your work.”
Beyond the social impact, the program provided a platform for significant professional development. Blackburn, Watson, and Bentley developed stronger communication styles adapted to different needs and gained emotional awareness through patience and empathy. Academically, the role allowed them to explore career paths in education, special education, social work, psychology, and healthcare.
“You learn how to explain tasks, give encouragement, and adapt your communication style to different needs,” they shared. “The benefit for the Prosper program has helped us tremendously in gaining our confidence to be career ready.”
Through this hands-on experience, Blackburn, Watson, and Bentley are gaining real-world skills they can carry with them after graduation. The work they’re doing now is helping them build confidence, explore career paths, and take meaningful steps toward their futures.
EKCEP, a nonprofit workforce development agency headquartered in Hazard, Ky., serves the citizens of 23 Appalachian coalfield counties. EKCEP is funded by the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, along with various federal and state grants and private donations, and is a proud partner in the American Job Center network. Learn more at ekcep.org.