At Arrupe Jesuit High School, our Corporate Work Study Program (CWSP) empowers students to develop real-world skills through meaningful partnerships with organizations that reflect our mission of community, leadership, and opportunity. One of these partners, Clayton Early Learning, is doing just that—providing students with invaluable experience in early childhood education while enriching their own team and school culture. We spoke with the Clayton team to learn more about how this partnership is benefiting everyone involved.
What do Arrupe Jesuit students work on at Clayton Early Learning?
Since September 2024, four Arrupe Jesuit interns have supported the Administration and Early Childhood Education teams at Clayton Early Learning. Working alongside seasoned educators, students assist with teaching, create new activities, engage with children one-on-one, and help manage classroom operations. They’ve completed essential certifications like First Aid and CPR and participate in Clayton Connects Days, receiving professional development with the broader staff. Their daily contributions, whether supporting classroom management or leading creative activities, ensure that Clayton’s young learners are supported with care, enthusiasm, and personal attention.
Why did Clayton choose to partner with Arrupe Jesuit?
For Clayton, the decision was rooted in shared values of community, opportunity, and inclusion.
“We chose to partner with Arrupe because their work-study students bring a unique and valuable perspective to Clayton,” the team shared. “Their bilingual abilities are especially important for our community, ensuring that non-English-speaking families feel included and supported. Their energy, creativity, and reliability make a real impact, enhancing both the classroom experience for children and the day-to-day flow for our educators.”
The collaboration also plays a role in workforce development, giving students meaningful exposure to the early childhood education field—an investment in the next generation of educators.
"Clayton Early Learning has truly benefited from the dedication and hard work of our Arrupe High School interns. They consistently go above and beyond, whether it’s communicating effectively with both kids and staff or taking initiative to tackle tasks and grow in their roles. These interns show just how much student associates can bring to a real-world setting. It’s evident that the Corporate Work Study Program is helping shape future leaders who are committed, adaptable, and ready to make a difference."
— Danielle Wilbert, Education Manager, Clayton Early Learning
How does this partnership align with Clayton’s mission and values?
Clayton Early Learning is dedicated to building strong communities, fostering collaboration, and ensuring every child has the best start to life. Partnering with Arrupe Jesuit allows Clayton to live out these values daily—creating a shared space where learning and mentorship flow both ways. By investing in young leaders, Clayton not only strengthens its immediate classroom environment but also contributes to the future of the early childhood education field.
What kind of growth have you seen in the Arrupe Jesuit students?
Since starting their internships, the students have shown impressive growth across multiple areas. Initially drawing from personal experiences with younger family members, they now confidently engage with children, communicate professionally with families and staff, and tackle a wide range of classroom tasks. Their skills in child development, scheduling, conflict management, and creative programming have blossomed. Participation in organization-wide professional development days has broadened their view of the education sector and deepened their sense of purpose within it.
How has hiring an Arrupe Jesuit student impacted Clayton’s culture?
The Arrupe interns have brought a fresh, uplifting spirit to the Clayton community. Their eagerness to learn and their openness to mentorship have enhanced collaboration among staff, strengthened bonds, and contributed to a culture of continuous improvement. Mentorship moments create ripple effects, helping both the students and the seasoned educators reflect, grow, and deepen their commitment to the work they love.
Advice for other organizations considering a CWSP partnership?
"Don’t hesitate. Partnering with Arrupe Work-Study is a win-win. It’s an incredible opportunity to support the next generation, enrich your workplace culture, and contribute meaningfully to your community. The students come eager, driven, and ready to learn. In turn, your team gains new energy, leadership development opportunities, and the satisfaction of investing in future talent.”
We are grateful to Clayton Early Learning for their openness, mentorship, and deep belief in the potential of Arrupe Jesuit students. Partnerships like this help make the Corporate Work Study Program truly transformational—proving that when students are given real opportunities, they rise to meet them.
To learn more about how your organization can support CWSP at Arrupe Jesuit, visit: https://arrupejesuit.com/corporate-work-study-program
Together, we’re shaping futures—one student at a time.
