About STARS

In September 2006, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Job Corps launched an initiative designed to improve students’ preparedness for careers in the high-demand industries of the 21st century.

This new initiative, called STARS (Speakers, Tutors, Achievement, Retention, Success),  increases Job Corps students’ academic achievement, career skills attainment, and retention in the program by providing motivational speakers to inspire them, and highly qualified tutors and mentors to assist them with academics, career technical training and personal and social development.

"The STARS initiative is a major component of Job Corps' Vision for the 21st Century," said Job Corps National Director, Dr. Esther R. Johnson.  "STARS resources will help students strengthen their literacy, numeracy, and personal and social development.  STARS will increase student retention in Job Corps, ensure completion of their program of study, and ultimately prepare them for the 21st century workplace."

Motivational speakers offer students the opportunity to hear and interact with real-life achievers who provide motivational and inspiring messages about what it takes to succeed despite life's challenges. Tutors provide academic and career technical assistance based on each student's individual needs.  Mentors provide emotional support and guidance and offer students strategies to enhance personal development and life skills.