MVUSD Students Receive Paid Work Experience

People of all ages are having a hard time finding a job in today’s market, which makes the opportunity of a paid internship right out of high school extremely valuable. Moreno Valley Unified School District’s A.S.T.E.R.I.S.K. summer internship program is providing 75 high school students and recent grads hands-on, real-life work experience they need to prepare them for jobs and to beef up their resumes. A.S.T.E.R.I.S.K., which stands for “Accelerating Success Through Employment, Responsibility, Inspiration, Skills & Knowledge,” gives some students a chance to explore career fields they may already be interested in, such as teaching or technology, and provides others with a look into jobs they may never have considered. “Students need a bridge experience from the world of school to the world of work,” explained Superintendent Dr. Judy D. White. “Internships are invaluable for students, and also give employers a chance to see how professional and responsible our young people can be.” Interns were placed at various MVUSD sites and at local businesses and public agencies to gain work experience. Dr. White believes this joint effort between the school district and local employers to help students succeed contributes positively to the community as a whole. To apply for the A.S.T.E.R.I.S.K. program, students submitted a completed application, proof of enrollment at an MVUSD school, a one-page essay, and two letters of recommendation from teachers or administrators. Placement was determined by students’ responses during an interview process. Interns’ work experience is enhanced through weekly professional development classes, at which they learn how to dress and conduct themselves in a workplace setting, how to be a responsible team member, the importance of taking responsibility for mistakes and other crucial job skills. The weekly sessions also give interns the chance to discuss their experiences with each other. Interns are currently serving at various MVUSD sites, several departments at the City of Moreno, Riverside County Regional Medical Center, Moreno Valley Public Library, several CVS stores, Walgreens, the March Joint Powers Authority, and Pulidos Wheels and Tires, and more.