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.

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.

Current Class Schedule (Weekly)

Monday / Tuesday

4:00 - 6:00 PM

Cost: Free, Students receive a monthly stipend for participation (read more below)

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.

Computer Art Lab

Incentives & Real-World Experience

An incentivized approach helps teach the value of creative work, increases self-worth, and reinforces dignity in all forms of labor. 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.

An Incentivized approach helps to teach value in the creative industries, increases self-worth, and reinforces dignity in all work.

Our Educator

Programs Assistant

Luzia Ornelas

Abir brings warmth, creativity, and care to DAVA’s classrooms. A former registered nurse from Syria, she volunteered at DAVA for over a decade before joining the staff in 2023.

Full Bio