Tamara Richards Joins HHS to Kick Off a Brand New Work-Based Learning Program at HHS

Huntington High School is launching a new Work-Based Learning program this school year through a partnership with Western Suffolk BOCES. Leading the initiative is Tamara Richards, who serves as the district’s Work-Based Learning Coordinator for the 2025–26 school year.

Ms. Richards will be at Huntington High School every Thursday and Friday, while also collaborating with other component school districts throughout the region.

A veteran educator with more than 25 years of experience, Ms. Richards worked as a Social Studies teacher in traditional high schools and alternative settings across New York City and Long Island. Her shift toward career development grew from her work at a Nassau BOCES alternative high school, where she saw how career and technical education helped students connect classroom lessons with future career goals. That experience inspired her to earn certification as a Work-Based Learning Coordinator.

"I love it here," Ms. Richards said. "I've been in many schools and each has its own personality. Huntington High School's is great! There's a very warm environment and a great energy here. Everyone has been very welcoming."

The district’s brand new Diversified Career & Technical Education (DCTE) program will allow students to pair their academic coursework with supervised work experiences across the community. Through the program, students can explore potential career paths, build resume experience, develop practical workplace skills, gain confidence, and establish connections with local business professionals.

According to Dr. Ricky Papandrea, Director of School Counseling and Testing K-12, “Tamara’s role is an important next step in bringing our Portrait of a Graduate vision to life. Work-based learning gives students the opportunity to connect classroom learning to real-world careers while developing the skills, experiences, and confidence they need to pursue their goals after high school.”

During her initial weeks on campus, Ms. Richards has focused on getting to know students and staff and working with school counselors while building a network of local business partners for future placements.

Huntington High School Principal, Ms. Brown said, "We are very excited to have Tamara on board as we continue to expand career and post-secondary options for our students. She has been very excited and enthusiastic as she transitions into this role, and we look forward to the growth of the program and our students being able to explore a wide variety of opportunities available to them after high school."

Faculty, staff, and students are invited to stop by Room 006 on Thursdays or Fridays to meet Ms. Richards, ask questions, or share ideas for student internship placements.