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Frequently Asked Questions

 

 1. What training opportunities are available?

 

  • Beginning - Computer Basics and Software Fundamentals: 11-week computer course for beginner computer users. Job placement assistance provided.
  • WorkFirst English as a Second Language (ESL): 11 or 22-week English-as-a-Second Language course offering Beginning and Intermediate levels. Intensive language curriculum includes customer-service training and a computer component. Job placement assistance provided.
  • WorkFirst Financial Aid: Offers free books and tuition in approved occupational programs for qualified individuals. See WorkFirst Financial Aid tab at left for qualifications.

 

2. Who is eligible?

 

Parents with dependent children who meet income requirements. Income requirements consider both monthly income (after taxes) and family size. Priority is given to those receiving TANF (Temporary Assistance to Needy Families). Valid permission to work in the United States is also required. Further screening for appropriate students is done at time of application.

 

3. How do parents sign up?

 

Beginning - Computer Basics and Software Fundamentals

Contact Cindy Donohue at (425) 564-2363 or by e-mail cdonohue@bellevuecollege.edu or stop by B131.

 

WorkFirst English as a Second Language (ESL)

Call (425) 564-4144 or stop by R130.

 

WorkFirst Financial Aid

Contact Cindy Donohue at (425) 564-2363 or by e-mail at cdonohue@bellevuecollege.edu or stop by B131.

 

 4. What testing is required before I can enter WorkFirst programs?

 

WorkFirst English as a Second Language (ESL) – ESL Assessment

WorkFirst Financial Aid – Math & English COMPASS Assessment

 

 5. Do students have to work while enrolled in the WorkFirst program?

 

If you are receiving cash assistance from DSHS, you will need to get a referral from your DSHS caseworker or social worker.

 

If you are a low-income parent, you need to be working a minimum of 20 hours per week and meet income guidelines.

 

 6. Can students get college credit for attending the WorkFirst Beginning Computer classes?

 

Yes. Students completing the Beginning Computer and Software Fundamentals class receive 11 credits.

 

 7. What services are available after I complete WorkFirst training?

 

All of our training and educational opportunities are designed to assist parents in gaining skills that will enable them to support their families. After training, we may assist with job search. We help students plan for future classes and programs that could help them with wage progression (see WFFA). We help them to further develop basic skills (ESL, ABE, GED classes). Once a student is working, we continue to follow up with her or him to offer additional support.

 

 8. Is WorkFirst at Bellevue Community College part of Department of Social and Health Services and Employment Security Department?

 

No, but we partner with those agencies in order to provide training opportunities for low-income parents.