JJC, Valley View School District Celebrate Opening of New Coffee Shop at Romeoville Campus

Joliet Junior College (JJC), in partnership with Valley View School District (VVSD), is proud to announce the grand opening of the Next STEP Coffee Shop at JJC’s Romeoville Campus, designed to support students in the VVSD Secondary Transition Experience Program (STEP).  

The ribbon-cutting event will take place on Wednesday, Sept.10, 2025, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Romeoville Campus, 1125 Romeo Rd. Romeoville, 60446.  

“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 at JJC. “By providing meaningful opportunities for all students, this coffee shop strengthens our local community and empowers young adults to reach their full potential.”

The STEP program is a special education initiative serving young adults ages 18–22 from Bolingbrook and Romeoville public schools. The program focuses on building vocational and independent life skills for students with disabilities who have completed their graduation requirements. Through structured, community-based instruction, STEP promotes postsecondary independence and success.  

"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 Marissa Trueblood-Seifert, VVSD STEP principal. "We are grateful for our partnership with JJC, and more specifically, this opportunity they are assisting us in providing for STEP students."

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. From customer service to daily operations, students will develop practical skills that prepare them for future employment and independent living.

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 and provides a welcoming space for students, staff and community members to enjoy quality refreshments while supporting a meaningful cause. Hours of operation are Monday-Thursday from 8-11:00 a.m. during the fall and spring semesters when the College is open.  

Community members, students, families and staff are invited to attend the opening celebration and support this exciting new venture. More information about the event can be found at jjc.edu.  

Media inquiries can be directed to katherine.smith@jjc.eu