Thank you, Keri Martinez, Title I Youth Coordinator for joining our live event on 7/26/21. Here's a recap of what Keri shared and additional resources that can help adult literacy programs work collaboratively with partners to engage young adults in career pathways programming.
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) defines out-of-school youth (OSY) as:
(a) Not attending any school (as defined under State law);
(b) Not younger than age 16 or older than age 24 at time of enrollment
(c) One or more of the following:
(1) A school dropout;
(2)…..basic skills deficient or an English language learner;
(4) An offender;
(7) An individual who is pregnant or parenting;
(8) An individual with a disability; or
(9) A low-income individual who requires additional assistance to enter or complete an educational program or to secure or hold employment.
(Visit WorkforceGPS for more details)
Tips for Engaging and Retaining OSY:
1.Title I staff participate in part of Title II program orientations to share information.
2.Build solid relationships with employers.
3.Provide financial supports (training, materials, background checks, transportation, permits and state identification fees, and driving lessons).
4.High School Equivalency testing voucher and cash incentive when credential is acquired.
Additional Resources:
•Collaboration Opportunities: WIOA Youth Program and Apprenticeship
•Teaching and Learning Using Instructional Design in YouthBuild: A Primer
Be sure to add your tips, success stories, and questions to this discussion thread!