Last Summer, The Calais Foundation announced that funding for The Calais School’s Learn N’ Earn stipend would be extended into the 2019-2020 school year. Fast forward to December of 2019 and the additional funding has enhanced the Learn N’ Earn program efficacy by incentivizing students, providing money management skills, and creating a more realistic employment experience.

The summer Learn N’ Earn Program is actually an extension of the Structured Learning Experience (SLE) program which runs during the regular school year. Participating students are matched with jobs that fit their career goals and personal interests. The program gives high school and 12 Plus students the opportunity to build a resume and develop employment readiness skills Depending on grade level students go to work at a variety of local businesses up to 4 times a week.

As a result of the additional funding 12 Plus students now have the opportunity to earn payment for all their hard work and dedication. Student progress is measured through a rubric that covers everything from timeliness and communication skills to problem solving, critical thinking and professionalism in the form of attitude, behavior and dress.

Stipends are distributed twice a year and students can earn as much as $350 per pay period. In between payments students will earn Calais Cash which can then be exchanged for real money.  The system is set up so as to encourage students to make a connection between performance and pay, practicing functional math skills and learning to budget.