Ready Set Work!

What is Ready, Set, Work! (RSW!)?

Ready, Set, Work! (RSW) is a program designed to develop job readiness skills and the motivation for continued learning for at-risk Burlington students aged 14-16. The program begins with an intensive 5-week summer session, which combines classroom based employment skills training 2 days per week and on-the-job work experience 3 days a week.

How does RSW! work?

Many participating students are transitioning from middle schools to high school and are recommended for enrollment by guidance staff or teachers. The summer program is followed up with a scheduled after school component during part of the school year to continue job skill development and maintain support connections for students. Students participate in team building and problem solving activities, research careers as well as their personal skills and interests, develop job search strategies, write resumes and cover letters, and conduct mock interviews. Career guest speakers and work site tours are integrated into the curriculum to expose students to a range of career options in area businesses and to understand professionalism on the job, employer expectations, and ways to make their employment search successful. Students are also matched with community employers for paid work experiences throughout the summer program. The classroom time also provides an opportunity to discuss work experiences the previous day and too jointly problem-solve issues that arise on the job.

Why is RSW! important?

Many students don't see the connection between school and the 'real world'. When they are not being successful in school for any of a number of reasons, students may choose to drop out and try to find ways to make some money. The transition from middle school to high school can be particularly challenging because of the additional factor of moving into that big, unknown institution from a smaller and more comfortable setting. Creating a way for students to clearly make the connection between learning and earning can be very motivational. Students also develop a sense of personal pride and confidence by getting paid for a job well done. Additionally, the Ready, Set, Work! program operates out of the high school during the quiet summer hours and thereby also builds a sense of ownership of the high school by at-risk students coming in.

For more information, contact:
Simon Parlante at (802) 864-8430 or sparlant@bsdvt.org