Work Based Learning (WBL)
The Work-Based Learning (WBL) Program at the Atlanta Area School for the Deaf provides students with meaningful, real-world experiences that prepare them for employment, postsecondary education, and independent living. Through partnerships with local businesses, community organizations, and vocational agencies, students have the opportunity to explore careers, develop workplace readiness skills, and apply classroom learning in authentic work environments.
Students participate in career exploration, job shadowing, community-based instruction, and paid or unpaid work experiences while developing essential employability skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, time management, and self-advocacy. The program also emphasizes independent living skills, professional behavior, and self-confidence to help students successfully transition from high school to adulthood. By combining classroom instruction with hands-on learning, Work-Based Learning empowers students to discover their strengths, build meaningful connections within the community, and prepare for successful futures.
Greetings! My name is DiQwan Jackson. I relocated to the Atlanta, GA area from Alabama. I began my career as an ASL Interpreter. I have experience in freelance, education, and video-relay interpreting settings. I completed my education at St. Petersburg College, transferred to Valdosta State University, and graduated in December of 2022 and completed my master’s degree in Deaf Education May of 2024 from VSU. Prior to me coming over to Work-Based Learning, I was working as a 3rd & 4th grade elementary teacher. During my free time, I enjoy relaxing at home with my dog, Dallas, traveling to gain new experiences, and exploring hotspots around Atlanta. Family and friends play a vital role of my being - spending quality time with them really means the world to me. Currently, I work as the Work-Based Learning Coordinator here at the Atlanta Area School for the Deaf. Preparing students with necessary, employable skills and job training has really fueled my passion to influence students for their chosen careers in the workforce. I’m honored to be a contributing asset to the education, protection, innovation, and improvement of quality education for the deaf and hard of hearing community.
Phone: 678-340-6945
Email: diqwan.jackson@doe.k12.ga.us
Hi! My name is Diedre Nicole Wells and I am one of the teachers with the Work Based Learning Program here at AASD. Since 2016, I have been working with this exciting program that teaches students how to work and succeed in “the real world.” I have been part of the AASD family since 2002. I am originally from Tionesta, PA but moved to Georgia to work at AASD. I received my Undergraduate degree in Special Education from Clarion University in Clarion, PA and my Master’s degree in Deaf Education from Canisius College in Buffalo NY. I have had many different roles during my time here at AASD. I have been a classroom teacher in the Elementary and High School Departments, a Bridges Specialist and a PE Teacher. My husband and I live in Snellville GA, we have two children. We love spending time together as a family whether that is going to the Atlanta Zoo or playing games together.
Phone: 404-300-5916
Email: diedre.wells@doe.k12.ga.us