Block 2 of the Leadership Education Advocacy Program (LEAP) provided students with a wide range of engaging and hands-on learning experiences. One of the highlights was the opportunity for students to work on-site with blind entrepreneurs in our Business Enterprise Program (BEP). This real-world experience allowed them to develop valuable vocational rehabilitation skills while navigating the dynamics of a fast-paced and competitive work environment.
Creative growth also continued through our strong partnership with the Des Moines Art Center. Students explored various artistic media and methods, with some building on previous projects and others diving into new ones. Meanwhile, our ongoing collaboration with Dale Carnegie offered lessons in empowerment and self-advocacy, reinforcing essential communication and leadership skills.
This block also featured exciting enrichment activities! Students visited Slideways in Knoxville, IA, for a thrilling go-karting experience, enjoying the fun while also facing new challenges in a fast-paced environment.
Our Thrive Thursday presentation was also a standout moment, thanks to a visit from Cam and Cole of Spock’s Sanctuary, a Des Moines-based reptile and amphibian rescue. Students had the chance to interact with four fascinating live animals: Fluffy the leopard gecko, Nectar the bearded dragon, Myrcella the ball python, and Octavia the Argentine black & white tegu.
Listen to what LEAP students have been enjoying so far!