McKenzi Bowen, a student at the Allegan Area ESA Transition Center, has reached a significant milestone: one year of independently working at the bakery inside Harding’s Market in Plainwell. As the only student in the program currently working solo, McKenzi has not only excelled in her role but has also proven to be an indispensable member of the bakery team.
McKenzi's primary responsibilities include packaging baked goods for sale, with a special focus on the bakery’s freshly made cookies. Over time, her role has expanded as she consistently demonstrated initiative and excellence in every task assigned. 
Her journey began with the guidance and vision of her teacher, Tina Kocefas, who has a passion for building community partnerships that benefit students. Kocefas initially asked McKenzi where she envisioned working, and McKenzi expressed her dream of working at a bakery in her hometown of Wayland. However, Harding’s Market in Plainwell offered a more accessible location for Kocefas to support McKenzi’s progress. The ultimate goal is for McKenzi to transition to Wayland Harding’s bakery as a paid employee.
Laying the Groundwork for Success
Before McKenzi could work independently, she gained experience in group settings at sites such as Goodwill and Kuahale Assisted Living. Here, she honed essential soft skills like teamwork, time management, and problem-solving. Once she mastered these skills, McKenzi was deemed ready for independent placement.
During her first month at Harding’s, Kocefas provided on-site support, gradually stepping back as McKenzi gained confidence and autonomy. Now, Kocefas checks in every few weeks, a testament to McKenzi’s self-reliance and dedication.
The Qualities That Shine Bright
Kocefas emphasizes that McKenzi’s exceptional work ethic and initiative set her apart. “She’s a self-directed worker who doesn’t wait to be told what needs to be done—she just does it,” Tina shared. These attributes have allowed McKenzi to grow into her role and gain the trust of her colleagues.
The Power of Community-Based Instruction
The Transition Center focuses on practical life and vocational skills rather than traditional academics, preparing students like McKenzi for real-world success. Kocefas explains, “We aren’t learning how to ‘take initiative’ by talking about it in the classroom. Our students learn by doing in real-life settings.”
For McKenzi, this approach has been transformative, helping her build confidence and a sense of purpose. Her progress highlights the importance of creating opportunities for students to develop independence in meaningful, hands-on environments.
Building Partnerships, Changing Lives
The collaboration between Harding’s Market and the Transition Center exemplifies the power of community partnerships. Kocefas shares that these relationships often begin with a cold call or a personal connection. Employers frequently discover that the students contribute far beyond expectations, ultimately recognizing the mutual value of these partnerships.
“Businesses like Harding’s play a huge role in helping our students transition into adulthood,” Kocefas noted. “They give our students a sense of purpose and belonging, which we couldn’t achieve as effectively in a classroom alone.”
As McKenzi celebrates her one-year anniversary, her journey is an inspiring reminder of the possibilities that emerge when community, education, and determination come together. She serves as a shining example of how the Transition Center’s emphasis on real-world learning and strong partnerships can empower students to thrive.
The future is bright for McKenzi as she continues to grow in her role and work toward her goal of a paid position in her hometown.