No Worker Left Behind Questions & Answers
What is the No Worker Left Behind initiative?
No Worker Left Behind (NWLB) is Governor Granholm's vision for accelerating the transition of thousands of workers into good-paying jobs by providing two years of free tuition at any community college, university, or other approved training provider to gain the skills and credentials for new careers in high-demand occupations, emerging industries, or to start/grow a business. The program will expand on the job-training and education services currently available to job seekers through Michigan Works! Service Centers.
Who is eligible?
Any Michigan resident who is currently unemployed, has received a notice of termination or layoff from employment, is employed but whose family income is $40,000 or less is eligible for free tuition under NWLB. Participants must be at least 18 years old, must not have graduated from high school in the last two years, and must not be full-time college students.
How do eligible persons enroll?
The first step is to report to South Central Michigan Works! to begin the eligibility and skills assessment process. Beginning August 1, 2007, eligible individuals have thre years to sign up and participate in this one-time offer.
What does the free tuition cover?
Tuition includes instructional costs, books, materials, fees (such as application costs, registration, and laboratory fees) and supportive services (counseling, academic advising, etc). Tuition assistance is capped at $5,000 per year for two years, or a total of $10,000 per person.
What are the requirements of the program?
Participants must pursue an associate's degree or occupational certificate for a new career in 1) a high demand field; 2) an emerging industry; or 3) an entrepreneurship program. However, bachelor's degree completion and even master's programs are allowable if the educational program meets all other core criteria (two years or less needed; will lead to job in a high-demand, emerging sector, or entrepreneurial endeavor; etc).
South Central Michigan Works! will be able to help participants identify high demand occupations in their region.
Who do interested persons call?
Call South Central Michigan Works! at 1-800-285-WORK.
Where can one get more information?
The NWLB website at www.michigan.gov/nwlb has information on currently available training opportunities, Michigan community colleges and universities, and job opportunities. Check back often as the website is continually being updated with new information. You will find out more about Michigan Works! by clicking on the "Job Resources in Your Community through Michigan Works!" link on the NWLB website.
