The COOL Directions program is a WIOA EWIB year-round, in-school, youth initiative for students, up to 21 years old and in grades 11 and 12. Students participate in work-readiness, portfolio development and employment activities. The program not only provides paid temporary internships, it also gives students an opportunity to understand the link between work and school. Students learn career pathways and labor market trends, financial literacy and job search skills. Participants must meet Department of Labor Guidelines to participate.

Benefits: This program offers contextualized learning that gives students real-world work experience. Participation also provides students with a better understanding of the connections between school and the world of work. Students experience a career pathway model and are able to network within their community.