Job Training in Arts & Technology I
For Middle School Aged Students (Grades 6-8)
DAVA’s Job Training in the Arts & Technology program provides middle school youth with a structured, project-based learning experience that builds both creative and workforce-ready skills. Students work collaboratively on long-term projects that combine visual arts, digital media, and technology while developing responsibility, communication, and teamwork.
Participants learn how to plan projects, meet deadlines, give and receive feedback, and present their work publicly. Through hands-on learning, students gain confidence and discover their creative voice while building skills that translate to school, careers, and leadership opportunities. Projects often connect to community themes, cultural identity, and real-world applications, giving students meaningful ways to contribute to their neighborhood.
Current Class Schedule (Weekly)
Monday / Tuesday
4:00 - 6:00 PM
Cost: Free, Students receive a monthly stipend for participation (read more below)
Job Training Skills
The program emphasizes:
Collaboration and teamwork
Creative problem-solving
Professional communication
Project planning and time management
Leadership and peer mentorship
Public presentation
Students often progress into more advanced opportunities, including leadership roles, or advanced programming like film, animation, editing or other forms of digital media.
Computer Art Lab
DAVA’s Computer Art Lab is where creativity meets technology. Youth explore digital tools to create graphic design, animation, digital illustration, photography, and video projects. The lab supports both beginner and advanced learners, providing access to professional software and guided instruction from teaching artists.
Students experiment with a range of digital media while developing technical skills and creative confidence. Projects may include designing posters, creating animations, editing videos, or producing digital storytelling pieces that connect to their experiences and community.
The Computer Art Lab helps students:
Build digital literacy and technology skills
Learn industry-relevant creative software
Explore animation, design, and video editing
Develop portfolios of digital work
Express ideas through multimedia storytelling
Together, Job Training in the Arts & Technology and the Computer Art Lab prepare youth for the future by blending creativity, technology, and real-world skill development in a supportive and engaging environment.
Incentives & Real-World Experience
DAVA’s Job Training in the Arts & Technology program reflects this philosophy by offering middle and high school participants a small monthly stipend. This stipend recognizes students’ time, effort, and commitment while introducing them to expectations commonly found in professional environments.
Stipends are based on attendance, participation, and personal performance. Each student meets regularly with their teacher for a review that includes goal setting, feedback, and reflection. These check-ins help students understand accountability, build professional habits, and connect effort with earned income in a supportive learning environment.
Program Structure
All students must apply to participate in Job Training
Students in middle and high school are eligible for stipends
Stipends are distributed monthly based on attendance and performance
Teacher reviews each session may impact stipend amounts
Participants are expected to communicate absences and stay engaged
Session Schedule
The Job Training program operates in three sessions each year:
Fall
Spring
Summer
Two-week breaks occur between sessions, and each session begins with a new cohort of students. Participants may apply for any session throughout the year, and sessions remain open until full. Students are not required to attend every class, but consistent participation is encouraged. If a student misses more than four classes in a session, they may be asked to release their spot to a student on the waitlist.
This structure mirrors real-world expectations while maintaining flexibility for youth and families. By combining creative learning with incentives and accountability, DAVA’s Job Training program helps students build confidence, understand the value of their work, and develop skills that prepare them for future employment and leadership opportunities.
Our Educator
Director of Arts & TechnologyLuzia Ornelas
Luzia Ornelas is a time-based media artist and educator who has led digital media programming at DAVA for over 17 years. She empowers students to explore animation, filmmaking, and interactive media while developing critical thinking and technical skills.