In Spring 2008, Utah piloted in a few areas of the state the Education Pilot Program for assisting Department of Workforce Services customers without a high school diploma (HSD) or GED in obtaining this basic level of education. While the focus was on moving customers into a HSD/GED program, the charge included providing appropriate “next step” education resources and referrals to those who were not able to pursue this basic level of education. The pilot was also to assist HSD/GED graduates in pursuing additional training or schooling programs currently in demand by the labor market. The HSD/GED portion became known as “Inve$t In You” (IIY). The IIY pilot was evaluated in two very different settings, a local adult education facility and a community college. Each had strengths and areas of concern. Both settings allowed for the evaluation of components of the IIY program which lead to success. Important components and lessons learned include:
- Intensive case management is critical to customer success
- Mandatory participation in the HSD/GED orientation works
- Having standards for attendance and progress is important
- Offering an incentive to join the program is essential