Former student visits Lifeskills classes

The Lifeskills students at South School had a special visitor on Monday, October 8 when Cheri Deeringer stopped by and shared her experiences since graduating from the Lifeskills program in 1999. She shared with the students the importance of learning how to pay bills, shop for the best buy at a grocery store, learning to cook meals, and finding hobbies that don’t
cost a lot of money.

Cheri Deeringer talks to the Lifeskills students about paying bills, shopping, and other skills necessary to live on her own.

Cheri commented on the new puzzles that were hanging up in the classroom since she has been gone and told how her apartment is decorated with puzzles that she has completed along with some paint by number pictures. She warned students about people who may try and take advantage of them when they are out on their own. She smiled as she told
them she had personal experiences with this issue when she was living in Columbus, Nebraska.

Cheri's full time job keeps her busy during the day, and she encouraged students to enjoy their school years as long as they can. She has made new friends in Missouri since leaving the Auburn area and has a
new job out of Rock Port, Missouri.

After Cheri’s visit, the older students worked with Kelly Brandon, their Lifeskills teacher, preparing bills to pay. Students opened monthly bills and had to figure out what was owed, when it was due, and how to prepare the checks. Students discovered that some companies may try to entice them to purchase an item by advertising in the bills. There are many skills to learn before leaving school and living independently. Mrs. Brandon uses real life experiences to practice these skills. Bringing her bills from home gives students an opportunity to practice one of the many skills needed when living independently.