As part of The Calais School’s Work-Based Learning (WBL) program, students explore potential career paths through hands-on internships with local businesses and organizations. These experiences not only provide valuable job training in professional settings but also help students build transferable skills that prepare them for life after graduation.

Every so often, a WBL partnership comes about organically—built on shared experiences, values and genuine connections. That’s exactly how the relationship between CareOne in Whippany and The Calais School came to be.

It began several years ago with The Calais School’s annual holiday choir visits, where students brought music and community spirit to CareOne residents. Over time, conversations with CareOne staff revealed a shared interest in expanding the relationship beyond seasonal celebrations. With mutual enthusiasm, the idea of a WBL internship program came to fruition—giving Calais students the chance to take on more meaningful roles at CareOne.

With over 50 locations across New Jersey and the Northeast, CareOne is a family-owned senior care provider offering a full spectrum of services—including memory care, rehabilitation, assisted and independent living, and long-term support. Guided by compassion and respect, CareOne’s mission closely aligns with The Calais School’s own unique nurturing environment.

“With many shared core values, this partnership was a natural fit,” explains Calais School Work-Based Learning Coordinator Maryann Braen. She adds, “What makes this internship unique is the ideal environment for practicing empathy. Supporting elderly residents encourages patience, responsibility, and compassion—all of which are core competencies we aim to cultivate through our WBL program.”

While on the job, interns engage with residents by participating in exercise sessions, joining discussion groups, playing brain games, and assisting with arts and crafts. They also help with light housekeeping and kitchen set-up. Many gain confidence as they learn to hold conversations, provide assistance, and offer companionship. 

The experience fosters both social-emotional growth and a deep sense of community connection. “The mutual appreciation between our students and the residents is truly heartwarming and reinforces the value of intergenerational experiences,” says Braen.

In addition, students take away transferable skills, including how to be a team player, demonstrate dependability to an employer, take on responsibility, and manage their time effectively.

One Calais student shared that her time at CareOne reminded her of her grandmother. The experience, she explained, helped her process her grandmother’s illness and taught her healthier ways to cope. Stories like hers highlight the deeply personal impact this internship can have on students’ lives. For other students, this partnership has sparked an interest in possible career paths in caregiving, health services, or social work. 

If you are a local business owner or store manager, and are interested in partnering with The Calais School’s Work Based Learning program, please contact our Work Based Learning Coordinator, at 973-884-2030 ext. 356.