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c. 3. Describe how the State assists local workforce boards in implementing innovative models for delivering youth workforce investment activities, including effective ways local workforce boards can make available the 14 program elements described in WIOA section 129(c)(2); and explain how local areas can ensure work experience, including quality pre-apprenticeship and registered apprenticeship, is prioritized as a key element within a broader career pathways strategy.

Current Narrative:

The State will contract with each LWDB to ensure the administration of all 14 program elements in their local areas. State monitors will use the State MIS to assess the availability and provision of these elements before annual reviews, ensuring compliance with WIOA section 129(c)(2). Currently, the state is working with a third-party vendor to assess each LWDB's WIOA program delivery, with completion scheduled by December 31, 2024.

Once the data is compiled, LWDBs will be notified of any deficiencies and required to submit corrective action plans. After reviewing and approving these plans, WorkForce WV will collaborate with each LWDB to provide necessary technical assistance related to the Youth Program and its 14 elements, expected to be completed by the end of the first quarter of 2025.

The 14 program elements will be included in the statement of work in the grant agreement that LWDBs must sign.

PROGRAM ELEMENTS

The State will assist LWDBs in implementing innovative models for delivering WIOA youth workforce activities through the following strategies:

  • Providing technical assistance, guidance, training, and resources.
  • Allocating funding to support infrastructure, staff training, and program enhancements.
  • Offering policy guidance to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations.
  • Conducting data-driven evaluations to assess effectiveness and inform adjustments.
  • Facilitating collaboration among LWDBs, employers, education providers, and community organizations to share best practices.

By supporting these strategies, the State ensures equitable access to effective programs, ultimately improving youth employment outcomes and promoting economic mobility.

The 14 elements of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) youth program are:

  1. Tutoring, study skills training, and instruction leading to secondary school completion, including dropout prevention strategies.
  2. Alternative secondary school services or dropout recovery services.
  3. Paid and unpaid work experiences, including internships and job shadowing.
  4. Occupational skills training.
  5. Education offered concurrently with workforce preparation activities and training for a specific occupation.
  6. Leadership development opportunities.
  7. Supportive services.
  8. Adult mentoring for at least 12 months during and after program participation.
  9. Follow-up services for at least 12 months after program completion.
  10. Comprehensive guidance and counseling, including drug and alcohol abuse counseling and referral.
  11. Financial literacy education.
  12. Entrepreneurial skills training.
  13. Services providing labor market and employment information about in-demand industry sectors or occupations.
  14. Activities to help youth prepare for and transition to postsecondary education and training.

The State plays a crucial role in integrating work experience into local career pathways strategies by providing guidance on best practices, funding support, policy development, technical assistance, and collaboration opportunities. Evaluations will be conducted to assess effectiveness and provide feedback for continuous improvement. This support ensures that work experience remains central to career pathways, enhancing opportunities for participants to gain valuable skills and experiences for successful careers.