JJC, Valley View School District Celebrate Opening Of New Coffee Shop At Romeoville Campus

ROMEOVILLE, IL — Joliet Junior College, in partnership with Valley View School District cut the ribbon to officially open the Next STEP Coffee Shop at JJC’s Romeoville Campus, designed to support students in the VVSD Secondary Transition Experience Program, according to a release from the District.

"The Next STEP Coffee Shop at Joliet Junior College is an exciting partnership that aligns with STEP’s
mission by providing students with real-world job skills, community engagement, and support for future vocational learning", said VVSD STEP Principal Marissa Trueblood-Seifert. "We are grateful for our partnership with JJC, and more specifically, this opportunity they are assisting us in providing for STEP students."

The STEP program is a special education initiative serving young adults ages 18–22 from VVSD, the District said. The program focuses on building vocational and independent life skills for students with disabilities who have completed their graduation requirements.

“The collaboration between JJC and Valley View highlights a shared commitment to inclusive education and workforce development,” said Dr. Stephanie Braun, Dean of Academic Intervention, Support and Student Development grants. “By providing meaningful opportunities for all students, this coffee shop strengthens our local community and empowers young adults to reach their full potential.”

The Next STEP coffee shop will serve as a hands-on learning environment where STEP students gain real-world work experience in a supportive setting, according to the release.

The coffee shop will offer a variety of beverages and breakfast items, including freshly brewed coffee, lattes, fruit juices, and smoothies, along with muffins, donuts and other morning treats. The shop is open to the public.

Hours of operation are Monday-Thursday from 8 to 11 a.m. during the fall and spring semesters.