The QA Commons is mindful of the dramatic and transformational impact COVID-19 is having on all institutions of higher education. As an organization, we are adapting our services to support preparing graduates for the workplace that is now changing more precipitously than ever.
Imagine a future where every student, regardless of their background, graduates high school not just with a diploma but with the skills, confidence, and clear direction to thrive in any career path they choose. This is the vision behind QA Commons’ 2024-2025 employability project at Palisades Continuation High School in Calistoga, CA.
In partnership with the Napa Valley Youth Advocacy Center (NVYAC) and with generous funding from the Roger Trinchero Family Foundation, this nine-month program will empower youth facing challenges to overcome barriers and ignite their passion and unlock doors to a brighter future through hands-on career exploration, skill development, and confidence-building exercises that will prepare them for success as they move into the working world.
Students who have not thrived in a traditional education setting are at a disadvantage as they transition to adulthood. Academic attainment gaps, low self-esteem and confidence, and lack of direction and purpose tend to restrict these students to low-wage jobs with little opportunity for advancement, perpetuating cycles of economic disadvantage and instability. By integrating career exploration and employability skills into the curriculum, continuation high schools can better support students in achieving long-term success and socioeconomic mobility.
Employability, simply defined, is the ability to secure paid work. It deeply impacts financial security, lifestyle, and personal identity and can be seen as a form of cultural capital. Many aspects of career success, such as understanding the “hidden” rules of the workplace, are often taken for granted by those already successful. These unspoken norms—ranging from punctuality and appropriate attire to navigating workplace power structures and networking—are essential for professional success. To ensure progress, it’s crucial to demystify these norms and equip learners with the skills to thrive in their careers. This project aims to help continuation high school students master these behaviors, enhancing their employability, long-term socioeconomic mobility, and overall quality of life.
This project brings together key community organizations to empower these youth to break the cycle of disadvantage and prepare for meaningful careers and opportunities. Supplementing QA Commons’ national expertise in employability skills and workforce readiness is the Napa Valley Youth Advocacy Center (NVYAC), which provides mentoring, mental health support, and life skills development, helping youth build healthy relationships, improve their well-being, and prepare for future success through community connections and advocacy. The Soroptomists of Calistoga, who have previously partnered with NYVAC and Palisades on student mentorships, are expected to be engaged.
Program outcomes for the ten participating students by the project end date of July 31, 2025 include:
The project is expected to yield benefits beyond the term of the grant. All of the materials developed will be archived and made available for Palisades to use in the years to come. Additionally, a comprehensive evaluation will be conducted to gain insight into the program’s successes and challenges. The findings will be summarized in a formal report to be shared with education and workforce stakeholders throughout Napa Valley.
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