Worker+Retraining+-+WorkFirst

=Worker Retraining - WorkFirst= 1) Reduce student book/supply cost 2) New program development in demand fields – medical such as Medical Asst., Sonography, Ultra Sound and x ray tech. 3) Large space for CJST/New Chance 4) Speed up the Financial Aid process. 5) Integrate new initiatives such as DSHS Customer Connections (online services) and BFET into operation.

Worker Retraining is a package of services, opportunities, and specialized instructional programs to help dislocated workers return to work as soon as possible. Students may be eligible for Worker Retraining Assistance, if they are: o Are unemployed and are collecting Washington State Unemployment Benefits o Have exhausted their unemployment benefits in the past two years o Have been working in the home, experienced a significant loss of income and need to re-enter the work force o Have received a WARN letter, or o  Have closed their own business due to economic downturn. o Are working in a not-in-demand job o Have lost their job because of a disaster o Are a recently separated veteran o Tuition Assistance/Book/Childcare/COMPASS testing (subject to eligibility guidelines) o  Job Placement Assistance o High wage, high demand professional/technical training programs o Tutoring assistance o Coordination with Employment Security o Assistance with TAA, CAT and NAFTA paperwork o Liaison to other agencies, programs and funding
 * Worker Retraining**
 * Worker Retraining benefits include: **

The Worker Retraining unit has increased it 's Fall Quarter 2009 service level by 170% over Fall 2008. We have the second highest increase of service to dislocated workers in the states colleges. There has not been an increase in staffing during this period, rather we have opted for working with students in large groups. while the state/national economy is improving the unemployment rate remains high with 14% of Lewis County workers still seeking jobs.
 * Personnel :**