World of Work*

*adapted from "World of Work" pamphlet published by the New England Laborers'/Cranston Public Schools Construction Career Academy

Topics

The Basics

Do you remember your first job?

Perhaps it was babysitting, cutting the neighbor's grass, or working in a local restaurant. Most importantly, it provided you with a foundation of values you still rely on every day; that is, understanding the importance of responsibility, respect, and finances.

In today's world, young adults must be prepared, more than ever, before entering the workforce. Our students who are enrolled in the World of Work Program are taught job readiness skills. Topics such as career exploration, work ethics, leadership development, personal and workplace skills, as well as financial literacy are taught in a classroom setting. These skills will prepare them for the "real world" prior to taking their first paid job.

Where will they find that job?

Our partners in the commuinity have already enlisted some of our students. Perhaps you would like to consider hiring one of our students the next time you have one or more available positions to fill.

Essentials of the World of Work

Our students are enrolled in four public high schools across Rhode Island: Cranston, Lincoln High School, Exeter/West Greenwich High School, and Rogers High School in Newport. Those enrolled are exposed to the following essential topics prior to entering today's workforce:

1. Developing a Career Plan

   • Evaluating interests, skills, and abilities
   • researching occupational choices by utilizing labor market information.

2. Job Attainment Skills

   • Completing accurate job applications, cover letters and resumes
   • developing positive interview skills and follow-up activities
   • placing students in employment.

3. Job Retention Skills

   • Understanding work ethics and cultural diversity
   • developing problem solving and teamwork techniques.

4. Development of Life Skills

   • Prioritizing goals
   • managing finances
   • developing oral and written communication.

How does the program work?

Our students receive World of Work instruction that commences with exploring and understanding career choices. Students are taught the essential job seeking skills that include developing cover letters, interviewing skills, and telephone skills. Additional emphasis is palced on workplace ethics, cultural diversity, and employer expectations.

Following intense instruction, students are placed with area businesses in jobs that reflect their career interest. This placement gives the student an opportunity to practice the skill learned in the classroom.

Throughout the program, a teacher/job coach is assigned to the student to assess monthly progress and to assist the employer.

How can an employer participate in the World of Work?

As an employer, you can participate in the World of Work Program by providing a student with an employment opportunity on a part-time or full-time basis. You may contact the Career Placement Specialist within your district (see below).

Testimonials

Many students participated in the original World of Work program in Cranston. Here is what our employer parnters have to say:

"They're eager and willing to work. They come in because they want to do this job." -Tasca Ford

"At Jiffy Lube, we look for dependable people. Students for the Career Academy are dependable, punctual, respectful, and committed in the workplace." -Jiffy Lube

"I'd like to commend her work as a team player and for her pleasant, professional attitude. Our company plans to send her to CCRI for class (in advanced computer training) upon graduation." -APG Security RI

Contacts

Lincoln High School

WOW Teacher: Tracy Hastings
Career Placement Specialist: Jo-Ann Perry

New England Laborers'/Cranston Public Schools Construction Career Academy

WOW Coordintor: Marilyn Coppola
Career Placement Specialist: Carol Corcelli