A local confectionery in Westboro is doubling as an innovative vocational training ground, where real-world skills are as plentiful as the candy lining its shelves. The BORO Sugar Shack isn't just another candy store; it's a real-life classroom for students of the local district's BORO program—a place where young adults with sweet tooth smiles learn to navigate the bittersweet reality of employment and adult responsibility.
The shop, known for its eclectic mix of fudge, vintage candy, and viral TikTok treats, is staffed by students aged 18 to 22 from Westboro Public Schools who are part of "Bridging Over to Right Opportunities." These students hit the shop floor, stocking shelves and ringing up sales, Angela McCarthy, a teacher in the BORO program, told CBS Boston. "Not only do they love coming to school but also the staff love being here," said McCarthy.
With a focus not only on math and reading but also daily living and job skills, the goal is to cultivate students’ independence. The Sugar Shack serves as a stepping stone to other community internships and, for some, eventually leads to paid employment. The program's director, Erin Laprad, laid out the sweet initiative's aim: "The goal is to teach them employability skills, teach them to be good employees and help them take that next step to maybe another community internship site and eventually, if it's what they want for themselves, paid employment."
Under the wing of Superintendent Amber Bock, the program hatched with approval from the state, allowing the district to operate a business. It’s an idea that’s not just about profit but an investment in students' futures, as reported by CBS Boston.
