Gina Benhoff is more than a teacher—she’s a guide, an advocate, and a bridge-builder for students navigating life’s challenges. As a special education teacher and leader of the Secondary Transition Experience Program (STEP), Gina’s work goes beyond the classroom, helping students with disabilities prepare for meaningful, productive futures.

Gina, an alumna of Central’s class of 2005, has been shaping young lives since she returned to her alma mater in 2010. “This was always my goal,” Gina shares. “There’s something special about being part of a community that supported you and now giving back to it.”

STEP, a program under Illinois’ Department of Rehabilitation Services (DRS), provides juniors and seniors with individualized support to transition into the workforce. From career exploration and job shadowing to hands-on employment, Gina helps her students develop the skills and confidence needed for independence.

The program begins with a nine-week classroom component where students explore career interests, fill out applications, and learn workplace expectations. “We focus on soft skills—how to keep a job, how to navigate workplace dynamics,” Gina explains. “It’s about giving them the tools to succeed.”

Students then transition to the work-based portion, logging at least 30 hours of competitive employment each month. “Every one of my students currently has a job,” Gina says proudly. “For those who don’t, we work together to find opportunities that match their interests and abilities.”

Her role doesn’t end there. Gina regularly checks in with employers to address challenges and celebrate successes. “I ask employers what we can reinforce in the classroom to improve performance,” she says. “It’s a partnership that benefits everyone.”

Gina’s deep ties to the Breese community play a pivotal role in her work. Her network includes local business owners, many of whom are eager to support Central students. “I’ve never been turned down when I’ve asked for help,” Gina says. “Our community genuinely wants to see these kids succeed.”

For students with greater needs, Gina organizes volunteer placements at businesses like the Clinton County YMCA and Germantown Market. “These experiences teach accountability, teamwork, and social skills,” Gina says. “For some, it’s a stepping stone to full-time employment.”

Gina also spearheads initiatives like Central’s twice-yearly career fair, which brings together 30 to 40 businesses, military representatives, and organizations. “It’s a chance for students to practice handing out resumes, researching companies, and asking questions,” she says. “Those moments of interaction often lead to real opportunities.”

In addition to STEP, Gina teaches courses like keyboarding, civics, and resource management. She also co-teaches with general education teachers to provide integrated support for students. “Every year is different,” Gina says. “That’s part of what makes this job so rewarding.”

Gina’s dedication extends to guiding students through the next steps in their education. At the end of the school year, she takes STEP students on a field trip to Kaskaskia College. “We walk through the admissions process, meet with advisors, and even make ID badges,” Gina explains. “It’s about reducing the intimidation factor and giving them a head start.”

For Gina, the most rewarding part of her work is seeing the long-term impact on her students. “I love hearing from them years later,” she says. “When they come back and say, ‘Remember that resume you made me write? It got me my job,’ that’s everything.”

Her passion for helping students extends to fostering self-advocacy. This year, she’s hosting a Zoom presentation with an advocacy group to teach students how to speak up for themselves. “The more we do the uncomfortable things now, the easier it will be for them in the future,” Gina says.

Gina attributes much of her success to Central’s supportive environment. “Our leadership sets the tone, and it trickles down,” she says. “We’re all working together to create opportunities for these kids and to support our community.”

As Gina reflects on her journey, she’s filled with gratitude. “This is 100% a ‘get to’ job,” she says. “I get to help students find their path, build confidence, and discover what they’re capable of. That’s a privilege I don’t take lightly.”

With programs like STEP and leaders like Gina Benhoff, Central Community High School continues to build bridges between education, opportunity, and community—ensuring every student has a chance to thrive.