FAQ

WHAT IS SCHOOL TO WORK?

At least as long ago as 1983 with the publication of A Nation at Risk and continuing with Workforce 2000 (1987); The Forgotten Half (1988); America's Choice: High Skills or Low Wages! (1991) and the Report of the Secretary's Commission on Achieving Necessary Skills (SCANS) (1999) national commissions made up of employers and educators have recognized the growing need for high school graduates to obtain higher skills in order to find employment in a workforce with a growing percentage of skilled jobs.

As a result of these concerns, in 1994 the federal School to Work Opportunities Act was passed to strengthen the capacity of schools across the country to foster higher student achievement and better prepare young people for future career success. The legislation provided "seed" money to help states implement school to work plans that would strengthen the education system's capacity to prepare students for education and career success in the 21st Century. A core feature of the legislation is the concept of a partnership that would involve educators, business, labor, parents and students, colleges, community and government leaders in developing the plan for their community.

WHAT IS CAREER READINESS

Like "school to work," "career readiness" is a term used to describe the various activities that help students prepare for success in the world of work and higher education. This involves career exploration, planning, and skill development. Internships, mentoring, classroom career talks, job shadowing, and other activities that give students enriching experiences and exposure to "the real world" help enhance students' career readiness.

WHO FOUNDED THE SCHOOL TO WORK ALLIANCE?

The founding of the School to Work Alliance was a collaborative effort undertaken by a number of New York City institutions. They included the New York City Board of Education, City University of New York, Citywide Parent Leadership Group, New York City Central Labor Council (AFL-CIO), New York City Department of Employment, New York City Partnership & Chamber of Commerce (now The Partnership for NYC), Office of the Mayor of the City of New York, and United Federation of Teachers.

ARE SCHOOL TO WORK AND CAREER READINESS ACTIVITIES FOR ALL STUDENTS, OR ONLY FOR THOSE WITH A CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION FOCUS?

School to work and career readiness is about preparing all students for future success and self-sufficiency, irrespective of their chosen career path, by developing high academic skills and the ability to apply their skills and knowledge in whatever career area they choose. School to work and career readiness programs help young people understand the career choices available and how to prepare for them, as well as to have the skills to function as a life-long learner in a ever changing society.

WHY SHOULD NEW YORK CITY SCHOOLS BE INVOLVED IN CAREER READINESS EFFORTS?

Schools should incorporate career readiness approaches and activities into the core learning of their school because research has shown that these efforts motivate students to stay in school and excel academically, thereby equipping them to succeed in their personal and professional lives. For more than a decade, employers and educators have worked together to strengthen the link between learning and future career goals of students. Research has demonstrated that some of the positive results for students include higher academic achievement, reduced dropout rates, better attendance, and better college preparation.

HOW DO BUSINESSES BENEFIT FROM GETTING INVOLVED IN CAREER READINESS EFFORTS?

There are many reasons why businesses get involved in education, and specifically career readiness efforts. Many companies recognize that a school-business partnership is an opportunity to interest students in careers in their industry and to strengthen the education and training of potential future employees. Some companies feel that they have a civic commitment to public education and equal opportunity. Other businesses contribute time and resources to their local school community because doing so engenders favorable publicity and enhances the company's public image. Partnering with schools also provides volunteer opportunities for employees, and often improves employee productivity and morale. Employees enjoy working with students and seeing them learn, and feel good about giving back to the community.

WILL THE SCHOOL TO WORK ALLIANCE HELP STUDENTS FIND JOBS OR INTERNSHIPS?

No. The School to Work Alliance does not place students into jobs or internships. Students who are looking for part-time, after-school, or full-time employment should contact their school counselors. The School to Work Alliance does lead the Coalition for Career Readiness in New York, a group of nonprofit organizations, some of whom offer work experiences to New York City students. Visit their web site at www.ccrny.org.

HOW CAN I NOMINATE MY SCHOOL'S BUSINESS PARTNER(S) FOR RECOGNITION AT THE STW ALLIANCE'S ANNUAL SCHOOL-BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP RECOGNITION RECEPTION?

Each January, the STW Alliance makes nomination forms available on its web site. Simply download the form, fill it out completely, and return to us by the specified date. The STW Alliance will notify honorees in the spring.

HOW CAN I SUPPORT THE SCHOOL TO WORK ALLIANCE?

Please visit the Support the STW Alliance section of this web site.