You've Got Questions? We've Got Answers!
To help you better understand our Co-Op program, we've compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions a new Co-Op employer may be curious about.
Q: How many hours does a student need to work?
A: A student is required to work a minimum of 30 hours during their scheduled shop cycle. Students are authorized to work more within the confines of the MA child labor laws.
Q: Do I need to pay the student?
A: Under the program, it is an expectation that the student will receive at least the state minimum wage of $15.00 per hour or be compensated at the same rate as employees with similar skill sets. There are exceptions to payment when an opportunity for a time-limited externship is approved by BVT administration.
Q: Can the student be paid on a 1099 as an independent contractor or do they have to be on the payroll?
A: Under the state guidelines of the program and because Co-Op students do not meet U.S. Dept. of Labor Darden Factors guidelines of an independent contractor, they can not be paid as an independent contractor. They must be paid on a W-4 and have taxes withheld and paid on regular payroll.
Q: Does a student work every week?
A: No, the student follows BVT's school schedule which has a rotating weekly schedule of academics and vocation. The schedule is available to all employers at the beginning of each school year. It is at the discretion of the student and the employer if the student works during vacations, holidays, or any other days that are not listed as vocational training days. The school calendar can be found on the school website.
Q: What happens in inclement weather?
A: Students are advised that if they are scheduled to work and inclement weather occurs, they should abide by what the employer has established. For example, if school is canceled due to snow, students are advised that they do not automatically have a snow day and should communicate with their employer on what their expectations are on their schedule for the day. Students should never jeopardize their personal safety during inclement weather.
Q: Can the students work after school on their academic weeks at their Co-Op employer?
A: Yes, many students do work part-time/weekends for their Co-Op employer during their academic weeks. The choice to do so is voluntary of the student and employer and is treated as part-time employment during those weeks. Requesting a student to miss school to attend work at any time would be a direct violation of the BVT Co-Op employer agreement and could lead to the employer being removed from the Co-Op program.
Q: How often do I need to grade the student?
Q: How often do I need to grade the student?
A: Every week when a student works on a Co-Op assignment, an assessment must be performed of the student's performance. Students will provide the direct supervisor with a weekly timesheet to be completed. The supervisor will provide feedback on the student's performance and confirm the student's hours worked. Students are responsible for the submission of weekly time cards.
MORE QUESTIONS?
No worries, for more information about our Co-Op program simply contact Kerri Baltramaitis, our Vocational Director, at 508–529–7758 x3412 or kbaltramaitis@valleytech.k12.ma.us.