Students in the program must demonstrate a variety of positive characteristics such as work ethic, attitude, responsibility, reliability, be an independent/autonomous worker, be organized, and be responsive to direction. Additionally, seniors must also have a 98 percent attendance rate, one or less behavioral referral and six hours of school/community service. They must maintain a “C” (2.0) or better GPA, must attend at least one manufacturing day and have at least one documented plant tour.

In turn, business partners may offer students who have earned a work ethic certificate such incentives as guaranteed interviews, preferential treatment in the applicant pool; and if employed, they may receive one of a variety of bonuses, etc.

As a member of the Governor’s Work Ethic Certificate program, students who complete the certificate at WCHS and relocate to another area in Indiana where business partners have signed on will be eligible for the same types of benefits as local partners have offered (it is up to the individual business to determine their own offers).

"We are excited for the opportunities our local business partners will be offering our students," said EPCS Superintendent Dan Foster.

He said one of the questions asked in discussing the new program with the seniors was, “Is this only for line jobs?”

"That’s the great thing," Foster replied. "No, this is not only for line jobs. All of these companies need some line positions filled, but they also have needs in accounting, human resources, marketing, engineering, etc. Some of these business partners even offer some tuition assistance."

Businesses interested in participating in this program, may call Dan Foster at 574-946-4010, or contact him through email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..