SANTA ANA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT/ROP

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Operationally, ROP consists of a variety of occupational training programs that lead to entry-level job skills for students age 16 and over. ROP classes, which are funded by the State, include integrated classroom and work -based activities. ROP teachers are experts in their field with a minimum of five years of work -based experience and a teaching credential. Of particular importance to many of the Success Bound! participants is the fact that these courses are offered not only at the ROP's Ritchey Center, but also on high school campuses throughout the District. Transportation is available at no cost for afternoon courses. Courses are also available in the evening and on Saturdays. Participants in Success Bound! Will also be given riD oritV registration for ROP courses during their time in the program —including the twelve-month follow-up period. Leadership Development ELEMENT #6: Provision of a support plan that affords participants with leadership development activities as an integral part of their total program experience. This element is primarily addressed during the bi-monthly meetings at each high school campus. This program is designed to be a skills -building youth development program that prepares youth to make wise decisions, set goals and gain a sense of self-worth. It is structured to be a very integrated, interactive program that raises awareness about how one's decisions and values have short and long- term consequences and how they influence one's health and well being. A portion of these activities will come from "Smart Choices" which is based on youth development programs that have been documented to reduce teen pregnancy, violence and risky behavior. This program has successfully equipped youth with skills that help them make positive life choices. This adapted program will also incorporate elements of another program entitled the "Gift of Giving" which focuses on service to others. The development of such an attitude belongs in this element and in fact, this activity not only supports two of the Success Bound! program's elements (leadership & guidance/counseling) but it also reinforces the whole concept of "customer service." This is a key element of career development and ROP courses that participants will be taking. It is well know that most teens and young adults lose their employment over non -skill related issues (the "soft skills") such as work place attitudes, attendance, customer relations, etc. The adapted "Smart Choices" program is offered in small groups and for a varying length of time to accommodate the career pathway orientation of the program and student availability. It is anticipated that each Success Bound! participant will be involved in this activity for approximately ten to twelve sessions. In addition, it is anticipated that one or more may be provided in conjunction with the Career Beginnings of Orange County's Mentor Night program that is described later in this proposal. Related Support Services ELEMENT #7: Provision of a support plan that affords participants with appropriate supportive services when needed to facilitate their successful completion of the program. A key component of the Success Bound! program will be the degree of support provided to each participant. Transportation to ROP training classes and work sites will probably be the most common example of support services. However, via the ROP's Community Advisory Committee and the Assistance League of Santa Ana, participants will have access to appropriate work site clothing when needed. The resources of the District's Teen Parent program will be brought to bear should a participant have to address such issues as childcare, parenting, etc.