FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FAQ for Sponsors
What type of jobs do students perform at the work site?
Specific job descriptions differ by sponsor; however, all students start with similar entry-level clerical duties. These duties can include data entry, answering phones, working in mailrooms, sorting, copying, and faxing documents, greeting and assisting customers, or running office errands. Many student workers, depending on their experience and skills, and the needs of the company, will graduate to more challenging and complicated assignments.
When do students work?
Work days are Monday through Friday from 9:30am – 5:15pm. The program runs concurrent with the school year, September through June. The work program also observes Christmas break, Spring break, and certain other holidays.
How do the students get to work?
The students report to school every day at the same time. On their assigned work day, students leave the school accompanied by a CWSP Chaperone who takes them on the subway.
Is there an annual fee?
Yes. There is a fee for hiring students and the rate varies from year-to-year. Please contact us for our current rates.
What if a sponsor does not have enough work for a full-time position?
For companies whose business cannot support a full team, partial teams are available on a sliding scale.
Who supervises the students at work?
The Work-Study Office has a working relationship with an on-site supervisor at each placement who will help guide and support the student in this challenging, rewarding experience. Both the supervisor and school staff will provide overall guidance, education and support to ensure that students are successful at work.
How are students prepared for their Work-Study jobs?
All incoming freshmen attend a rigorous three week summer Business Boot Camp before beginning their first corporate work-study placement. Returning students also receive ongoing feedback and training from employers and the CWSP staff throughout the school year.
Are students available to work over school breaks or summer?
School break or summer employment can be arranged through the school or directly with the student.
What if a sponsor is interested in the program but does not have a need for entry-level clerical help?
If a sponsor does not have appropriate entry-level clerical work there are opportunities for individuals or corporations to sponsor students at local non-profit organizations.
Does the work schedule interfere with the classroom schedule?
No, the daily schedule is organized so that all students complete a full weekly class schedule in an extended-day format.
How do we measure our students' success?
The Corporate Work Study Program uses performance evaluations to measure our students' success. We ask that our supervisors complete one evaluation per trimester. Evaluations are the primary factor in determining the students' grade in their Corporate Applications (CAPPs) class as well as the proper course of action for remediation and retraining. Supervisors refer to a Review Guide when accurately and objectively assessing their student workers growth.
How can I get more information about the Work-Study Program?
Contact the Director of the Work-Study Program, Adriane Castillo, at acastillo@cristoreyny.org
FAQ for Prospective Students
Do students get paid directly?
The money that is paid by sponsors goes towards the cost of the student’s education. Some students may have the opportunity to work during school breaks if there is a mutual agreement among CWSP, the sponsor, and student. Money earned during school breaks will be paid directly to students.
Do students choose where they go to work?
After considering students’ skill levels and interests and the skill set needed by our sponsor, the CWSP staff will determine where students are placed.
Is there a dress code?
Cristo Rey New York High School students are held to strict standards. All students are required to wear formal business attire both at school and work. Students must adhere to their dress code at all times.
Do parents have direct contact with corporate sponsors?
No. All communications with sponsors are made through the Corporate Work Study office. If parents need to contact their child, they must contact the school for assistance.
Is there an age requirement for students?
Yes. A student must be 14 years of age to participate in the Corporate Work-Study Program.
Do all students go to work?
Yes, all students are required to participate in the Corporate Work-Study Program.