Board approves RISE work program to place RISE students in district‑run jobs and community partnerships

The board approved a RISE work program presented by district staff that aims to place participating students in supervised, paid work experiences with district departments and community employers.

Program developers described a tiered progression: students begin with supervised, on‑campus tasks under RISE staff supervision; if successful they move to supervised placements with district departments such as grounds, transportation or maintenance, and ultimately to community employer partners. Presenters told the board the program targets specific students served by RISE and similar special‑services programs; it is not a general employment program for all students.

Funding for student wages will come from external workforce programs (Arizona@Work and related third‑party funding under the Arizona Department of Developmental Disabilities umbrella), staff said; students would earn hourly wages (presenters cited $15 per hour) and could work a capped number of hours across multiple terms. The district’s requested contribution is administrative and logistical: primarily cooperation from district staff at placement sites and provision of workers’ compensation coverage for students while on district premises or under district supervision.

Trustees and presenters discussed screening and job‑description development, staff willingness to host student workers and a plan for gradual scaling. Presenters said placements would begin small and would involve RISE staff escorting and supervising students until both students and host staff are comfortable.

The board voted to approve the RISE work‑program proposal; staff will return with implementation details and memoranda of understanding with partners.