For some students at CORE Butte High School, the work does not end when school lets out. For many, this means shifting from classrooms to workplaces. Juggling school, jobs, and personal responsibilities can pose quite a challenge. When faced with this, students find their own ways to make things work.
Maranda Moretto, Senior
Maranda Moretto, a senior CORE Butte student, recently started working at Durham Deli. She works the register, along with making sandwiches and cleaning up. “It is a bit stressful making sure everything is clean for a good food environment,” Maranda said. Maranda, like many working students, has to balance the stress of school along with work responsibilities. “I think about school when I’m at work,” Maranda shares. Even while she’s working, her mind often drifts back to her school responsibilities. Her workplace is also located near a school, and she talked about how the lunch rush can be stressful and quick-paced.
Jocelynn Gonzalez, Senior
Jocelynn Gonzalez, a CORE Butte Senior, works at the Old Fortune Dumpling House. When asked about what she does here, she stated, “Everything.” A day at work for her can consist of a variety of things, like making boba, waitressing, busing tables, taking to-go orders, and even hosting. While she enjoys the work, she says the schedule is stressful. “Sometimes I worry about school when I’m at work and then I worry about work when I’m at school,” Jocelynn said. Having so many tasks can cause stress. Plus, Jocelynn added that a lot of people have been let go recently, leaving her feeling less secure with her job.
Henry Watkins, Senior
Henry Watkins, a CORE Butte senior, has been working at Spencer Automotive for over a year and a half. He describes his job as secure and flexible.“I get to make my own schedule, so it doesn’t impact school,” Henry said. His tasks include custodial work and filing, and, unlike most working high school students, he feels no stress about balancing work and school.
These stories highlight the different experiences CORE students face while balancing their academic and work responsibilities. Some jobs provide security and flexibility, while others provide uncertainty and stress. Despite the challenges, students like Maranda, Henry, and Jocelynn are learning valuable lessons in time management, independence, and responsibility. These are skills that will benefit them far beyond High School.
