We Can Work Program

We Can WorkThe We-Can-Work (WCW) Program provides Students services based work and learning experiences, as directed by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act for students with a disability, ages 16 through 21, who are in high school, and either potentially eligible for or recipients of DOR services. 

The program consists of short-term placements, either on or off campus. Work experience may include paid/unpaid internships, paid/unpaid employment, summer work experience, work exploration, and job shadowing.  Students may participate in more than one work experience placement. The program works to find appropriate job matches for the students’ interests and needs. Work experiences are intended to be temporary placements to gain experience in the workplace. They may also result in the development of any of the following: vocational direction, appropriate work attitudes, ethics, interpersonal skills, speed, and accuracy as well as some foundational occupational skills.

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE IN THE WORK PROGRAM/REQUIREMENTS? 

TCUSD students ages 16-21 with an IEP or 504 plan.

WHAT ARE WORK PROGRAM HOURS LIKE? Hours will vary based on students' schedules and business needs. Students under the age of 18 must follow necessary work permit requirements. 

WHAT CAN WE EXPECT FROM THE WE CAN WORK PROGRAM? 

• Job exploration counseling

• Work-based learning experiences

• Counseling on post-secondary opportunities

• Workplace readiness training

• Instruction in self advocacy.

WORK EXPERIENCE PLACEMENTS

Any paid or non-paid work experience activities will:

·      Comply with the Department of Labor regulations, including rules for volunteer placements if the work experience is unpaid.

·      If it is a paid work experience, the contracting school will be the employer of record

·      Students will be paid at least minimum wage

·      Students may participate in up to 300 hours of work experience hours

WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE TO STUDENTS? 

We are currently partnered with local businesses (restaurants, offices, grocery stores) and organizations as well as job opportunities within our school district. TCUSD will continue to build relationships with local businesses to increase the opportunities for our students. 

WHO IS THE CONTACT PERSON? 

Raylene Wilkerson is the Work Experience Coordinator

rwilkerson@tcusd.net | 626-548-5000 ext 5151