High School Partnership
When comparing the high school graduation requirements in each state (USA), it can be ascertained that while most states, if not all, require a similar amount of English, Math, Social Studies, and Science credits, there is a significant lack of course work applicable to professional and career readiness skills. This poses an exceptional challenge for graduates who want to enter the workforce directly after high school.
According to a 2019 study, only around “5% of U.S. adults say high school grads are very prepared for success in the workplace…”. Since adults consistently perform the hiring and personnel management for companies, this statistic is problematic. It illustrates that even recruiters and hiring managers find U.S. high school graduates to be ill-prepared for the workforce.
In order to combat this issue, the Global Impact Initiative has created a High School Partnership Program. In this program, Gii partners with school districts or independent high schools. Gii then leverages its educational background, along with its human capital with significant human resource experience, to provide structured training opportunities directly to high school students on various applicable topics.
The first pilot for this program was launched in early-2021 with Alleghany School District, Virginia. During the course of that pilot, workshops were provided on topics such as self-marketing, communication and professionalism, resume building, and college applications. These workshops were provided via virtual means, which allowed speakers to present materials while students were in class. Juniors and Seniors participated in this program; however, at the request of the school, Gii also coordinated the launch of a mentoring program specifically for the graduating seniors of the high school at the conclusion of the workshop series.
In keeping with its mission, the Global Impact Initiative is primarily addressing career readiness skills within underserved communities. Gii is currently in the process of expanding programmatic operations to other counties throughout the Appalachian Mountain chain, as these counties have struggled financially over the past several decades due to the transition away from coal. This program is forecasted to spread to additional school districts across the United States, as more schools enter into partnerships with Gii.
If you are interested in getting your school district involved in this partnership program, please feel free to contact us!
