Celebrating Student Contributions

MCIU student with Same Davey looking at constant force spring window balance system.

On July 23, 2024, Sam Davey Co-President of John Evans’ Sons, Incorporated visited Montgomery County Intermediate Unit (MCIU) with the John Evans’ team. They took this opportunity to express their gratitude to the students for their dedicated work and discuss the impact of their contributions. John Evans’ Sons, a leading manufacturer recognized for its innovative window balance systems, is a long-time supporter of MCIU’s extended school year transition program.

About MCIU’s Transition Program

The Montgomery County Intermediate Unit was established by the Pennsylvania Legislature in 1971 to aid local school districts.

MCIU Mission:

“The Montgomery County Intermediate Unit, a dynamic educational service agency, provides visionary leadership, impactful services, and strategic solutions that maximize access and opportunities for all learners.”

MCIU provides special services through cooperation and collaboration among schools and community agencies. These services result in innovative, responsive, and cost-effective programs. Offering direct and indirect support to more than two million students and nearly 147,000 school professional staff in Pennsylvania.

Extended School Year

Due to the remarkable work of MCIU, John Evans’ Sons takes pride in providing them with continuous support. The ESY program maintains and strengthens transition skills over the summer to enhance personal and social independence. Through the transition program for ESY, each student develops appropriate social skills, career acquisition skills, and career retention skills.

 A Day of Recognition and Learning

As part of MCIU’s transition program, these hardworking students have demonstrated remarkable precision and a quality-oriented mindset by assembling shoes and cams for window balance systems. At the visit, they had the opportunity to meet the people behind the products they assembled, ask questions, and discuss their experiences. The ability to assemble shoes and cams requires dedication, attention to detail, patience, and care. After transitioning from MCIU, these skills will be crucial in achieving independence, succeeding in the workplace, and fostering self-pride.

The Importance of Their Work

The John Evans’ team first shared a comprehensive overview of the significance of the students’ efforts because of the tremendous impact they have. Then, it highlighted how these components are crucial for window functionality in homes across the Caribbean to Canada. Last, members demonstrated the role of the cam, engaging and pushing the top guide of the window balance, which is then moved along with the window.

This visit wasn’t just about recognizing the students’ contributions. It was an educational experience that connected classroom knowledge with real-world applications. They learned firsthand how their work fits into a larger picture. The skills they learned assembling, working together, and independence are something they can take satisfaction in. This group showed great attention to detail and quality work, they did an amazing job they can be proud of.

A Bright Future of Collaboration

Above all, the visit from John Evans’ Sons highlighted the power of community collaboration. By working together, businesses and educational institutions can create enriching experiences that benefit both students and companies. The gratitude expressed by John Evans’ Sons underscores the importance and impact of the students’ hard work.

As the visit concluded, there was a shared excitement for future support. Both, John Evans’ Sons and MCIU, look forward to continuing their partnership, providing students with valuable opportunities to learn and grow through practical experiences.