Photo of kids from the Learn-2-Earn program.

Learn-2-Earn Program

The Learn-2-Earn Program is designed to prepare students for future success by combining workforce readiness training with academic and personal development. Through structured learning, mentorship, and paid experiences, students build responsibility, professional skills, and confidence to succeed in school, career, and life. 

6th - 12th Grade
Anderson & Indianapolis
Runs September 2026 through May 2027
Applications Open From August 1st through August 31st

Apply Now >

How It Works

During the first phase of the program, students focus on workforce readiness and personal development. They learn how to communicate professionally, collaborate with others, manage responsibilities, prepare for interviews, and build strong workplace habits. Students create a professional resume, participate in mock interviews, explore career pathways, and begin developing a vision for their future goals.

Equally important, Learn-2-Earn intentionally supports students' social-emotional growth. Through mentorship, leadership activities, team-building experiences, and guided reflection, students strengthen self-confidence, emotional awareness, decision-making, problem-solving, and communication skills. These experiences help students build resilience, develop positive relationships, and gain the confidence to navigate both academic and professional environments successfully.

Secondly, students complete a five-week practicum during the summer through different workplace opportunities. During these experiences, students apply what they have learned in real-world settings while supporting academic instruction and community-based programming. The practicum allows students to gain valuable hands-on experience, workplace exposure, and leadership development in a supportive environment.

At the conclusion of the program, students are honored during a capstone recognition ceremony celebrating their growth, achievements, and commitment throughout the year.

What Students Walk Away With:

  • A completed professional resume

  • Certificate of Completion

  • A letter of recommendation

  • 20+ community service hours

  • Paid workforce experience and earned income

  • Practical workforce and leadership skills

  • Increased confidence, professionalism, and communication skills

  • Social-emotional tools that support long-term success

  • Real-world experience that prepares them for future opportunities

Who Can Join:

Any students in grades 6-12 who want to build leadership skills, gain confidence, learn professional habits, and prepare for future career opportunities in STEM are welcome to join. No prior experience is needed—only a willingness to learn, grow, and show up consistently.

Apply Now >

Applications open August 1 through August 31.

Group of children and two adults standing together indoors near a window, with a colorful mural on the wall behind them and chairs nearby.
A man presenting to a diverse group of people seated at tables in a classroom or community room, with notebooks, water bottles, and snacks on the tables.
Children participating in a fruit juice-making activity at a display table with various fruits, a blender, and informational posters on the yellow wall behind them.
A group of young people standing against a white wall in a room.
Two children wearing astronaut costumes and hats with hoods, standing in front of a space-themed display with signs about weight and resistance. One child is pointing with his index finger, and the other is lifting a small weight bar.
Group of young people seated at tables in a classroom or meeting space.
Two women sitting at a white table, working on documents with pens, a calculator, and a smartphone. There are additional papers and notebooks on the table, in a room with a white wall, window, and some folded furniture or equipment against the wall.

What They Are Saying…

“I would like to take this time to thank Dr. Neiko for implementing her program. My granddaughter and the other students really enjoyed it. The students seemed like they were in a safe space where they could discuss and talk about everyday challenges.”

—Jean McIntyre, Grandparent

“The Learn-2-Earn Program has taught my daughter valuable life lessons. She has grown confidence in public speaking, financial literacy, and job development. Dr. Neiko’s mentorship has been life changing for her and we are both grateful for the knowledge she has received.” 

—LaShonda Huff, Parent