Per Scholas Grads Get Jobs, Even During COVID

Per Scholas grad Omar Martinez speaks at the organization's first-ever virtual graduation on Friday, April 17th. ​

In response to new policies on social distancing to curb the spread of COVID-19, Per Scholas made the decision to close all campuses effective March 18, and moved all currently enrolled students into a remote learning setting. More than 500 students in 30 classes nationally transitioned to a virtual platform -- including 11 classes and over 200 students in New York City.

This required helping students overcome technology needs. Per Scholas provided technology and internet access to existing students who lacked the tools to fully engage in remote classrooms. ​In New York City, over 50 students have received loaner technology to-date.
 
Despite the pandemic and recession, Per Scholas has succeeded in helping its students graduate, practice job interviews, and get hired. Per Scholas maintained a 90% student retention rate through the transition period, ​with 71 New Yorkers graduating in their first virtual graduation on Friday, April 17th. Per Scholas partnered with over 80 New York-based corporate volunteers to do video mock interviews with students. Since March, Per Scholas has placed over 30 graduates into jobs.
 
Per Scholas’ licensed social workers and financial coaches have helped students overcome immediate crises caused by COVID 19. They surveyed students on a weekly basis and responded with targeted interventions for students who are experiencing severe emotional or financial hardship. The team has also delivered group workshops on prevalent issues related to managing stress, anxiety, and grief, as well as distributing emergency financial assistance.
 
With all this success, Per Scholas sees an opportunity, via remote and hybrid training models, to increase access to programs even after social distancing has concluded.