LINKING SCHOOL-TO-WORK PROGRAMS TO COMMUNITY ECONOMIC-DEVELOPMENT IN URBAN-SCHOOLS

The author argues that community-based organizations can improve the q uality and relevance of school-to-work programs. Community-based organ izations can integrate secondary schools into broader community econom ic development initiatives and keep students interested in staying in school. Case studies of four partnerships between schools and communit y-based organizations are presented to illustrate different approaches and concentrations for school-to-work programs. The author concludes with specific recommendations for creating similar partnerships.