VITAL LINK PROGRAM FACTS
What is VITAL LINK?
VITAL LINK is a weeklong, half-day internship program designed to demonstrate the connection between what is learned in the classroom and what is needed for success in the workplace.
Who can participate in the program?
VITAL LINK is a free summer program offered to Fort Worth ISD sixth grade students who will be entering the seventh grade in the fall.
How does the program work?
Students complete an application that includes permission from a parent to participate. All students are accompanied by a teacher who supervises their work.
What does VITAL LINK research show?
Research conducted by the FWISD Department of Research and Development concluded that attendance rates at school were better for VITAL LINK participants than for non-participants. It also shows that VITAL LINK participants took more courses above grade level than comparison groups.
What is the role of Fort Worth ISD?
The VITAL LINK program is managed by the Fort Worth ISD Parent and Public Engagement Department. Staff members who recruit companies to participate, train teacher supervisors and develop student placement. FWISD provides round trip bus transportation for students from the students’ home middle schools to the participating business locations.
What is the role of teacher supervisors?
Teacher supervisors guide all learning opportunities and facilitate the student’s experiences. They also take a proactive approach by assisting employees in designing the week’s activities and making the VITAL LINK connection for students.
What is the role of participating businesses?
Commit to hosting 10 FWISD students for a one week, half-day internship.
Select a business representative that agrees to coordinate the activities with a Fort Worth ISD representative and teacher supervisor.
What are the dates for 2010?
The weeks offered for VITAL LINK are June 14-18 and June 21-25, 2010. Students choose to participate in one of these weeks.
How long will the internship last?
Internships are one week, from approximately from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
What will the week look like for students and business partners?
Monday -- Orientation at the business and time spent on the job with their mentors.
Tuesday-Thursday -- Students spend time working with and learning from their mentors.
Friday -- Students work followed by a culminating activity where they present certificates of appreciation to the mentors and share their experiences.
Where can I learn more?
Janie Christie
817.871.2449
janie.christie@fwisd.org