Per Scholas participants enrolled in a 15-week computer technician training program that consisted of instruction and practice related to assembly, configuration, installation, upgrade, and repair of personal computers, printers, and copiers.
The training program prepared participants to obtain an entry-level computer certification. After the training, Per Scholas offered participants internships with local employers or with the Per Scholas recycling and refurbishing center.
The program also provided life skills training, employability training, career mentoring, job placement assistance, post-employment services, and assistance with work attire.
Participants were people with low incomes who had a GED or a high school diploma, had inconsistent participation in the labor market, and met standards for proficiency in English and math. Per Scholas was implemented in New York City, NY.
Two studies focused on Per Scholas. The first, a study of sector-based programs, also evaluated two other interventions: Jewish Vocational Service-Boston and the Wisconsin Regional Training Partnership. In the second study, Per Scholas implemented a WorkAdvance Model. This model provided technical training similar to that provided in the first study and offered more intensive career readiness services, including interview preparation, résumé development, and soft skills training. It also offered career advancement services, including career coaching while in training and postemployment coaching focused on obtaining promotions, higher wages, better benefits, or additional training. WorkAdvance is a sector-based workforce development model. Three other sites implemented the WorkAdvance model as part of the WorkAdvance Demonstration: Madison Strategies Group in Tulsa, OK; St. Nick’s Alliance in Brooklyn, NY; and Towards Employment in northeast Ohio.