SANTA FE, January 17 –The Governing Body has approved a work-based learning program developed between the City of Santa Fe’s Office of Economic Development and Youth and Family Services Division in partnership with Santa Fe Public Schools (SFPS). The program will utilize $797,600 from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) the City received for youth workforce development, mentorship, and job training. Santa Fe is the only city in New Mexico to utilize these funds in partnership with public schools.
The new initiative will consist of paid internship programs for youth interested in arts-based, trades, and diversified industries leadership opportunities. High school juniors, seniors, and recent graduates living in Santa Fe will be eligible to apply. The ARPA funds will provide support for the school's operations and services, including business outreach, student mentoring, soft and life skills training, student internship placement, and paid internships during the school year and the summer.
“Santa Fe has a diverse variety of families, all of whom would all like to ensure young people have opportunities to prosper and make a meaningful career path,” said Community and Economic Development Director Rich Brown. “I am thrilled to see this innovative partnership supporting our future leaders move forward.”
"Our work-based learning program continues to soar. We greatly appreciate the city's partnership with the district and its investment in our youths. This program is meeting employability needs across many sectors, which is a benefit to employers and students. It's a prime example of what can be accomplished when everyone is at the table for the betterment of all," said SFPS Superintendent Hilario "Larry" Chavez.
The funding contract for this program was fully approved by the City of Santa Fe's Governing Body on January 11, 2023.
Thank you to SFPS leadership, including Superintendent Hilario “Larry” Chavez, Deputy Superintendent Vanessa Romero, Assistant Superintendent for Secondary Schools Michael Hagele, Executive Director of Curriculum and Instruction Peter McWain, Director of College and Career Readiness Mary Massey, and SFPS' Work-Based Learning Coordinator Jose Villarreal, for their important contributions to the development of this program.