The aim of the Workforce Education programs are to help students get jobs! The fully integrated programs provide ESOL and literacy instruction in a work skills context with an emphasis on computer skills.
The curriculum is aligned to the Equipped for the Future Framework for Adult Literacy and Lifelong Learning (EFF), which includes 16 skills every self-sufficient adult should possess. The 8-16 week program uses both group activities and individualized instruction, and depending on a student's skill level and job opportunities, s/he may "fast track" and complete the program ahead of schedule.
The Career Academy is an integrated course that includes academics, general customer service training, computers, and job readiness ("soft skills"). The program averages 12 weeks, with 6 weeks of classroom instruction, 2-4 week internships, and 2-4 weeks of individualized skill building and job searching. Each student is assigned a case manager and meets regularly with the agency’s job developer.
Our sector-based training is modeled after the Career Academy, the sector-based training is contextualized to prepare students for entry level jobs in specific industries. Recently we ran a health track as part of the Stepping Up project and a hospitality track for the City’s First Source initiative. Like the general Career Academy track, internships and extensive supports characterize the course.
Students may also access the Job Center, a "drop-in" center to research jobs, work on resume writing, practice interviews, access computers, and get one-on-one instruction. The Job Center is open from 9:30 am -11:30 am, Monday through Friday and Tuesday through Thursday evenings from 5:00-8:00. The Job Center is open to all Dorcas Plcae students in the evening with a referral from a primary instructor or case manager.
A high school diploma or GED is not required to enroll in the Career Academy.
If you have further questions about the Career Academy, please call 401-273-8866 and ask for Naomi ext# 167.
©2004 Dorcas Place Adult & Family Learning Center, Inc. . 220 Elmwood Avenue, Providence, RI 02907 . phone: 401-273-8866