North Charleston, S.C.: School Aims to Restore Coffee Program for Students with Disabilities

North Charleston, S.C.: School Aims to Restore Coffee Program for Students with Disabilities

In North Charleston, South Carolina, Jerry Zucker Middle School is taking steps to revive a unique program that offers students with disabilities a chance to develop essential life skills. The initiative, known as Lightning Bean Coffee, was designed to provide hands-on experience in a working environment while fostering independence among its participants.

Who Is Behind the Program?

The program is led by Special Education Teacher Katie Keith, who focuses on students with various disabilities, including Autism and Down Syndrome. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of functional academics—skills that will prepare her students for life beyond the classroom. Keith incorporates life skills training into her curriculum by having students engage in daily tasks such as wiping down tables, charging laptops, and even doing laundry.

What Is Lightning Bean Coffee?

Initially launched in 2017, Lightning Bean Coffee operated as a school coffee shop run by the students. The program allowed students to make and deliver coffee and other café treats to their peers. Tasks included measuring coffee, pouring drinks, and reading ticketed orders, which contributed to their understanding of following directions similar to real-world job scenarios.

What Happened to the Program?

The coffee shop thrived until the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. As schools shifted to remote learning, Keith found it challenging to maintain the program’s momentum during the transition back to in-person classes. The pandemic led to a heavy focus on academic catch-up, sidelining the initiative that once provided invaluable skill-building opportunities for students.

Plans for a Comeback

Now, as the year 2024 unfolds, Keith is determined to bring Lightning Bean Coffee back to life. She envisions the renewed program not only relaunching the coffee shop but also equipping her students with necessary life skills. To make this vision a reality, Keith seeks funding to acquire equipment and supplies necessary for the operation, such as cups, coffee grinders, and a cart for distribution within the school.

Why Is This Important?

Keith believes the program would greatly enhance her students’ confidence and independence. “They would be so excited,” she states, referring to her students’ enthusiasm for engaging in activities that break the routine. “This group is really great and I believe that they will do a great job.” The new iteration of Lightning Bean Coffee aims to deliver more than just caffeine; it plays a vital role in teaching functional skills that will prepare students for their future endeavors.

How Can the Community Help?

To fund the revival of Lightning Bean Coffee, the community has been encouraged to contribute through a donation platform specifically designed for educational projects. The donations will go directly toward the necessary materials, ensuring transparency and accountability in their use. This fundraising initiative will be active until February 10.

Through this initiative, Jerry Zucker Middle School is not just looking to brew coffee; it is also brewing confidence and independence for its students with disabilities. By merging practicality with education, the Lightning Bean Coffee project stands to offer enriching experiences that reach far beyond the classroom walls.