Partners for Rural Impact (PRI) and the Pineville Independent School District are proud to announce an innovative and collaborative partnership that will provide up to 20 high school juniors and/or seniors with a unique “Earn and Learn” summer internship program. This 10-week program combines real-world work experience with valuable skills development and community engagement, all while offering participating students notable wages of $10 per hour for up to 40 hours per week.
“We are thrilled to partner with Pineville Independent to launch this transformative program,” said Jason Reeves, Associate Director of Postsecondary Initiatives at Partners for Rural Impact. “The ‘Earn and Learn’ initiative provides Pineville students with an invaluable opportunity to gain hands-on experience, build essential skills, and contribute directly to their community. This program aligns perfectly with PRI’s mission of fostering vibrant and sustainable rural communities.”
Through the “Earn and Learn” program, participating students will spend three days per week gaining valuable experience working alongside professionals at local organizations within a ten-mile radius of Pineville. These organizations, which can apply to host up to two interns, will benefit from the students’ fresh perspectives and enthusiasm while providing them with meaningful mentorship and real-world challenges.
In addition to their internships, students will also participate in weekly skills-building sessions designed to enhance their communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership abilities. These sessions will equip them with the tools they need to succeed not only in their summer internships but also in their future careers.
“This program represents a win-win for our students and our community,” said Russell Thompson, Superintendent of the Pineville Independent School District. “By providing our students with paid work experiences and essential life and career skills development, we are preparing them for future success while simultaneously strengthening our local economy through partnerships with local businesses and organizations.”
All Pineville High School sophomores, juniors and seniors with a strong work ethic and a desire to make a positive impact on their community while exploring potential future career interests are applying and ready to work.