Work Study Program: Earn Credit While Gaining Real-World Experience

Work, Learn, and Stay on Track for Graduation


HOPE Online Learning Academy Co-Op’s Work Study Program allows high school students to gain hands-on job experience while earning elective credit toward graduation. This program is designed for students who want to develop career skills, explore professional pathways, and balance education with employment.


By participating in Work Study, students can build a strong resume, gain valuable workplace skills, and stay on track to graduate—all while working in a real-world job environment.


Why Choose the Work Study Program?


HOPE’s Work Study Program offers students the opportunity to:


  • Earn Elective Credit – Receive academic credit for approved, verifiable employment.
  • Gain Real-World Experience – Develop workplace skills that prepare students for careers after graduation.
  • Balance Work & Education – Continue academic progress while maintaining a part-time job.
  • Build Career Readiness – Learn essential professional skills such as communication, problem-solving, and teamwork.


This program is an ideal choice for students looking to develop workplace experience without compromising their academic success.


How Does Work Study Work?


Through the Work Study Program, eligible students work at an approved job placement while completing their high school coursework. Hours worked translate into elective credit, ensuring students can graduate on time while gaining valuable job experience.


Key Program Features:


  • Academic Credit for Work Experience – Students earn elective credit based on verified work hours and employer evaluations.
  • Flexible Scheduling – Designed to fit around students' school responsibilities while maintaining steady employment.
  • Workplace Skills Development – Helps students build resume experience, time management, and professional communication skills.
  • Career Exploration – Provides insight into different career paths and industries before graduation.


HOPE’s academic advisors and mentors work closely with students to ensure they can successfully balance school, work, and personal commitments.


Who is Eligible?

Students must meet the following eligibility requirements to participate in Work Study:


  • Be enrolled as a high school student at HOPE Online Learning Academy.
  • Maintain a verified part-time or full-time job that aligns with the program’s work-study guidelines.
  • Obtain approval from a HOPE Academic Advisor and submit required documentation.


Certain restrictions may apply based on employment type, work hours, and state labor laws.


What Types of Jobs Qualify?

Many types of entry-level and career-building jobs qualify for the Work Study Program, including:


  • Retail & Customer Service – Grocery stores, restaurants, retail shops, and hospitality roles.
  • Administrative & Office Work – Clerical support, data entry, and receptionist roles.
  • Healthcare & Childcare – Babysitting, daycare assistants, and nursing support roles.
  • Trade & Technical Jobs – Automotive, construction, and manufacturing work.
  • Technology & IT Support – Computer repair, tech assistance, and digital marketing roles.
  • Community & Nonprofit Work – Volunteer-based and service-oriented positions.


Students should work with their HOPE Academic Advisor to determine if their job qualifies for Work Study credit.



Our Mission & Vision


Mission:

Our Personalized Learning program is dedicated to providing student-centered support that meets the unique needs of all learners, ensuring that every student has an equal opportunity to succeed.


Vision:

We are committed to building a learning environment where all students feel safe, valued, and connected—one that promotes growth, confidence, and academic achievement. Through collaboration, personalized instruction, and dedicated support, we empower students to overcome challenges and reach their highest potential.


How HOPE Supports Students with Special Needs


HOPE provides a full continuum of services to support students who have been identified with special needs. Our Special Education team is composed of highly trained professionals, including:



  • Licensed Special Education Teachers – Delivering direct instruction and personalized learning support.
  • Mental Health Specialists – Providing emotional and behavioral support for students.
  • Speech-Language Pathologists – Helping students improve communication and language skills.
  • Occupational Therapists – Assisting students in developing fine motor skills and adaptive learning strategies.


  • Individualized Learning Plans

    Each student identified for special education services receives an Individualized Education Program (IEP) tailored to their needs. Our comprehensive assessment process helps determine:


    • Academic strengths & areas for growth
    • Personalized learning strategies
    • Necessary accommodations & modifications
    • Behavioral and social-emotional support

    Through this individualized approach, students receive targeted interventions designed to minimize academic gaps, build confidence, and create pathways for success.


  • Family & Community Collaboration

    At HOPE, we recognize that families play a vital role in a student’s educational journey. We prioritize strong partnerships with parents and guardians, ensuring that they are actively involved in their student's learning plan.


    What Families Can Expect:


    • Regular communication with educators and support staff
    • Opportunities to collaborate on IEP goals and progress monitoring
    • Resources and training to support learning at home
    • A dedicated team advocating for student success

    We also work with local community organizations and support services to ensure that students receive additional assistance when needed.


  • Inclusive Learning Environment

    HOPE is dedicated to creating an inclusive and supportive educational experience for all students. Our blended learning model allows students with special needs to thrive in a flexible learning environment, offering both:


    In-Person Support – At our community-based Learning Sites, students receive small group instruction and one-on-one support from mentors and special education staff.


    Online Learning – Students engage with a structured, accessible curriculum that allows them to work at their own pace, with accommodations in place to support their success.


    Our team ensures that students feel empowered, independent, and confident as they navigate their educational journey.


How to Apply for Work Study Credit


  • Step 1: Meet with a HOPE Academic Advisor
    Students interested in Work Study must schedule a meeting with their HOPE Academic Advisor to discuss eligibility, job placement, and credit requirements.

  • Step 2: Verify Employment & Work Hours
    Students must provide documentation of their employment, including employer contact information, work schedules, and job descriptions.

  • Step 3: Submit Work Study Application & Approval Forms
    Students will complete necessary enrollment forms and obtain employer verification before beginning the Work Study credit process.

  • Step 4: Track Work Hours & Receive Credit
    Students must log their hours and submit progress reports, with employers providing performance evaluations to confirm skills gained.

The Benefits of Work Study for Students


By participating in the Work Study Program, students can:



  • Graduate with Real-World Experience – Gain valuable job skills while still in high school.
  • Earn Credit for Employment – Use work hours toward elective credit, keeping students on track for graduation.
  • Prepare for Future Careers – Develop professional experience that strengthens college applications and job resumes.
  • Balance School & Work – Maintain academic success while learning financial responsibility and workplace skills.


The Work Study Program is a great opportunity for students who want to work while staying focused on their education and long-term career goals.