SPOKES is an academic and job preparation skills program under contract between the Department of Education, Office of Adult Education and Workforce Development and the Department of Health & Human Resources and in collaboration with the WV Workforce Investment Boards. SPOKES classes are located throughout the state of West Virginia. In each class, the teacher(s) provides an intense daily regiment of activities which address academic and job preparation skills. The course also covers the following: I.MODULES A. WEEK 1: PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT Self-Esteem Goal Setting Time Management Money Management B. WEEK 2: EMPLOYABILITY SKILLS Communicating with the Public/Customer Service Decision-Making/Coping with Change Problem Solving Stress & Health C. WEEK 3: WORKPLACE KNOWLEDGE The 21st Century Company Work Ethics Work Place Professionalism & Diversity Rights & Responsibilities D. WEEK 4: READY TO WORK Maintaining Balancing In Life & Work Working Productively Preparaing for and Taking Employment Tests Employment Portfolio II. DAILY ACTIVITIES A. Job Readiness: Students will learn to complete applications, create a resume, cover letter, references, and a thank you letter. In addition, students will also practice interviewing skills. B. Computer Applications: Students will be given an overview of basic computer skills such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. The students can also earn an additional certificate through the IC3 certification. III. Customer Service A. Level I: In this component of the program, Students learn the basic of providing effective Customer Service skills and abilities. They can also earn a certificate for the completion of this level. B. Level II: Level II of Customer service equips our learners with an additional certificate which enables them to be a more effective employee.
SPOKES class in Mason County started in 2005. Each year since 2005 the class has grown and is continuing to grow. The instructors for Mason County are Terry Branch and Nick Northup.