"There are millions of youth ages 16 to 24 who are out of school and out of work. They cost the nation billions of dollars every year and over their lifetimes in lost productivity and increased social services. They also represent an opportunity for the nation to tap the talents of millions of potential leaders and productive workers at a time when America’s skills gap is significant." Opportunity Road, America's Promise
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Kelly, 16, dropped out of high school to care for her disabled grandmother and younger brother. Kelly liked school but missed many days to care for her family. She has worked as a babysitter and ticket taker at the state fair, but has not found a full time job.
Kelly's career plan: get a GED and study fashion design in college. |
Su, 19, graduated from high school soon after her son was born. She attended community college for a semester but did not enroll the next term because she felt financially unprepared for college. Su decided to work for a year before re-enrolling. She is still looking for a job that earns enough to save and pay living expenses.
Su's career plan: return to college to become a high school math teacher. |
Luke, 17, has lived in 8 placements since entering foster care five years ago. Although Luke is a "B" student, he is only in the 10th grade because of the many times he transferred schools. Luke has worked short-term construction jobs and likes working with his hands. He plans to dropout of high school to get a full-time job supporting himself.
Luke's career plan: get a GED and start a construction company with his friend. |
Shauna, 21, earned a certificate in medical office technology a year ago and is still working part-time as a retail sales clerk. She would like a job in the health care industry but is discouraged by her long job search. Someday, Shauna would like to become a nurse but knows she needs to be a stronger student to achieve this goal.
Shauna's career plan: look for a full-time job now and someday study nursing. |