Kayleigh Gaborek, a Start on Success educator in Pittsburgh School District, streamlines planning and builds real access for diverse learners by pairing scaffolded reflections with job-ready writing practice.

“The resume and cover letter builders are a big help for my students in formatting these important documents. As a special education teacher, I like that I can add differentiation by having some of my students do the multiple-choice Career Checks as opposed to the short-answer Career Journals.”

What this looks like in practice

Use the same prompt in two formats — open-response Career Journals and multiple-choice Career Checks — so every student engages with identical content at the right level. Put both options in a single assignment, direct students to the one that fits, and grade with a quick 3-point rubric (completion, accuracy, reflection). For writing prep, schedule a short class block to produce drafts with the Resume and Cover Letter Builders, using a simple checklist: all sections present, clear wording, and one measurable achievement.

How to try it

• Begin each semester with a career video series and survey reflection activity.
• Use IEP meetings to discuss students’ top interests and build goals tied to their results.
• Let students choose a career-related task to practice (mock interviews, job searches, etc.).
• Use visual charts or trackers to help students see their growth over time.
• Celebrate milestones with certificates tied to workplace readiness skills.

Sam Spiegel

Sam Spiegel is a Growth Marketing Specialist for Pathful and a BCLAD-certified educator with a Master's in Education from the University of California, Santa Cruz. As a former elementary school teacher, Sam is now a dedicated and results-oriented EdTech specialist, enjoying the intersection of his passion for education and technology.