FAQ

The CWSP is a cost-effective solution for businesses that need entry-level clerical help. Since students are employed by the Work Study Program, businesses save time on paperwork and save money on taxes, health benefits, and other expenditures. Employing Cristo Rey Miami students also boosts employee diversity, supports the local community and helps build Miami’s future workforce.

Job Partners pay a flat fee of $32,500 per year directly to the Cristo Rey Miami CWSP office for each team of four students, which covers one full-time entry-level position. The Job Partner is not responsible for any additional expenses (payroll taxes, benefits, etc.).

Students generally perform entry-level clerical work. They answer telephones, maintain files, sort and deliver mail, scan and fax documents, perform data entry, serve as a department assistant, and create documents with Microsoft Office.

All incoming freshmen attend a rigorous 2-3 week Summer Success Institute (SSI) before beginning their first corporate work assignment. Students also participate in a CWSP class as part of their academic schedule to continue to enhance and develop their professional skills while receiving ongoing feedback and training from employers and the CWSP staff throughout the school year.

Job Partner organizations range in size from small offices to large multi-national corporations.

Job Partners have the following responsibilities:

• Provide a positive working environment for each student, with clear instructions and regular feedback.
• Assign an on-site supervisor who believes in the program to oversee the students.
• Identify meaningful work for the students and explain to them the importance of their role.

Students are expected to meet or exceed the level of professionalism and dedication demanded of their adult colleagues at the workplace.

Cristo Rey Miami provides transportation for students to and from their job placements.

An on-site supervisor at the Job Partner will guide and support students at work. Cristo Rey Miami CWSP staff will coordinate with on-site supervisors to provide the necessary guidance, training, and care that students need to succeed in the workplace.

We ask that companies work through on-site supervisors and the Cristo Rey Miami CWSP office to resolve issues with students. Although it rarely happens, a student can be re-assigned if necessary, and another student will take his or her place.

Cristo Rey Miami has a special provision from the U.S. Department of Labor which allows the school’s CWSP to employ children 14 years of age and older. Annually, the Cristo Rey Network renews this special provision for all Cristo Rey schools.

Yes, it is possible to hire the students during certain school breaks. Since the CWSP operates like a staffing agency, it handles all student payments, including payments they receive for extra work. School break or summer employment can be arranged through the CWSP office, and the earnings from students' work over school breaks goes to the students, not the school.

If a business does not have appropriate entry-level clerical work, there are opportunities for individuals or corporations to sponsor students to work in a not-for-profit organization.