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The Foundation for Edmonds School District has received a $60,000 grant from Liberty Mutual Insurance to support the Foundation’s On-the-Job Training (OJT) program. The grant will provide $30,000 annually over two years, helping expand access to college and career readiness opportunities for students across Edmonds School District.
According to a foundation news release, the OJT program is a two-year immersive learning experience designed to prepare students for post-secondary education and future careers. Each year, the program serves 30 juniors and 30 seniors from Edmonds School District’s five comprehensive high schools: Edmonds-Woodway, Scriber Lake, Meadowdale, Lynnwood and Mountlake Terrace.
Through the program, students participate in dual-credit college courses and gain hands-on professional experience through paid summer internships with local and regional business partners across multiple industries, as well as gaining important soft skills such as communication and time management.
Liberty Mutual Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Liberty Mutual Insurance, supports organizations and programs that help people advance security and build resilience for more secure futures and stronger communities.
“This investment from Liberty Mutual will help remove barriers to opportunity for students in our community,” said Deborah Brandi, Foundation executive director. “OJT gives students meaningful access to college-level coursework, paid work experience, and professional networks that can transform their future.”
Across the U.S., household income remains one of the strongest predictors of college readiness and postsecondary success. National data shows that students from low-income households enroll in college at significantly lower rates than their higher-income peers: 52% compared to 89%. In Washington state, only 50% of low-income students enroll in college following high school graduation.
The need for programs like OJT is especially urgent in Snohomish County. Nearly half of the Edmonds School District’s students — more than 9,100 — are considered economically disadvantaged.
“OJT is intentionally designed to close opportunity gaps,” Brandi said. “This program ensures students can see themselves succeeding in college and in the workforce.”
Learn more about the Foundation for Edmonds School District here.
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