L-Works |
What is L-Works?L-Works is a program designed for 16-and-older Burlington High School English Language Learners (ELL) to improve their employability by teaching basic job skills, cultural competencies, and exploring career options. It provides ELL students with an introduction to workplace expectations through classroom instruction and hands-on experience with an employer. Generally, ELL students have recently arrived to the US, and have limited proficiency and understanding of the skills necessary to successfully gain employment. Along with the expectation of making financial contributions to the family, finding a job can be quite intimidating. Teaching practical, competency-building activities allows ELL students to develop basic skills that are essential in meeting workplace expectations. An internship with a host organization will provide real-life practice, going beyond what is possible in a school setting. How does L-Works work?Classroom sessions take place twice a week for four weeks, covering topics such as: job search strategies, communication, networking, interviewing skills, employer expectations, job vocabulary, and filling out job applications. Following this, students are matched at a job site for a forty-hour paid internship, during which the coordinator supports both them and the host site, ensuring that both the student and employer have a positive experience. The goal of the program is for these students to be offered paid employment upon successful completion of both the classroom course and internship. Why is L-Works important?L-Works was piloted in 2007 at Burlington High School. Many of the new Americans at the school were struggling with the current career class, which is a graduation requirement, and so the idea was born. LLL worked with ESL teachers to come up with an appropriate program and goals that were vital to these students’ success, both in school (the career class requirement) and in the workplace. Set to begin its third year, L-Works has become an in-demand course for the ELL students at BHS and LLL hopes to expand the program to other local schools. L-Works is designed to help students make the connection between school and work, and learn the skills necessary to succeed in the workforce. An inherent outcome of the program is ELL students becoming more integrated in their school, community, and work settings. How do I get involved?Businesses: You can host a student internship or offer paid employment. Schools: You can indentify and recommend potential students for the program. Students: You can contact Linking Learning to Life of their Guidance Counselors about participating in L-Works. For more information, contact:
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