Washington's Workforce Development Strategy

Youth Goal: Ensure all youth receive the education, training, and support they need for success in postsecondary education and/or work.

Objective 4 - Reduce unemployment rates among older youth, and improve their career prospects.

No later than 2018: There is a comprehensive state strategy to help unemployed older youth reconnect with work and/or further education opportunities.

Steps To Get Us There

1. Create summer youth employment programs. Leads: WDCs, Workforce Board, OSPI, with other partners.
2. Connect unemployed youth to expert “navigators” who can guide them to postsecondary resources and work experience opportunities. Leads: WDCs, OSPI, SBCTC, with other partners.
3. Seek a WIA I-B Youth waiver or WIA Adult 18-24 waiver for the maximum age eligibility and supplement these resources with state funds. Leads: ESD, Workforce Board, WDCs, with other partners.
4. Develop I-BEST opportunities specifically for older youth. Leads: OSPI working with Skills Centers, SBCTC, Workforce Board and other partners. Requires the support of Governor and Legislature and General Fund – state appropriations.
5. Ensure the Grant programs includes a strong component for re-engaging youth 21 years of age and under to reconnect with education to obtain a high school diploma. Leads: OSPI, Workforce Board, with other partners. Requires the support of Governor and Legislature and General Fund – state appropriations.
6. Connect disadvantaged youth to AmeriCorps and Service Corps opportunities. Leads: ESD, OSPI, WDCs, with other partners.

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