Fort Worth Chamber program supports working teens
While other students relax on the weekends, high school senior Miguel Salcedo heads over to the Fort Worth Zoo Salcedo, who works in the zoo's gift shops, said he clocks in for about 12 hours per week.
"I try to put in as much work as I can in school and at the zoo," Salcedo said. "It can be hard to manage."
To help working teens, the Distinguished Employers of Fort Worth Teens program steps in. As a part of the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce's Stay in School Initiatives, the program tries to identify and promote better teen employment practices that encourage high school success and completion.
Cynthia Fisher-Miller, senior director of Workforce Development and Education for the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce, said the program helps make students feel more appreciated.
"Sometimes you go to a fast food restaurant, and you don't think much about who's working there," Fisher-Miller said. "They're the future work force. We should be thinking more about them as people."
To be eligible for the program, businesses must employ current Fort Worth ISD students and pledge to implement at least six of the 10 employment practices recommended by the Chamber. Examples include supporting outreach efforts to recover dropouts and encouraging ongoing dialogue with students concerning school performance.
The Fort Worth Zoo has been a part of the program since it began in 2008.
For Salcedo, his job brings him closer to his ultimate goal. He wants to attend Texas A&M University and study political science.
"I love this job," Salcedo said. "Not many people can say they work at the zoo."
