About WorkFirst
WorkFirst is a referral based program that is a partnership between Peninsula College, DSHS, Employment Security, and the Department of Commerce. The Peninsula College WorkFirst program assists parents receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) that want to further their education. Parents in the WorkFirst program can participate in Basic Education for Adults classes, High School/GED Completion, and/or Professional Technical degrees or certificates at Peninsula College.
We Have Two Goals:
- To help parents be successful students and,
- To help students meet participation requirements for DSHS
How WorkFirst May be Able to Help You:
- Educational Planning
- Dedicated Study Lab
- Financial Assistance
- Work-Study Employment Opportunities
- Equipment Loan Program
WorkFirst Approved Programs:
- Basic Education classes for skills brush up or High School or GED completion
- English Language Acquisition (ASL) classes
- Associates of Applied Science (AAS) degrees in Professional Technical Programs.
- Short term certificates in Professional Technical Programs.
- View Approved Professional Technical Programs
WorkFirst Study Lab:
Dedicated WorkFirst staff are here to help assist you in furthering your education. We have a Study Lab located in building P on the Port Angeles Campus that has multiple computers with the latest technology based programs such as Photoshop, Illustrator, Word, Excel plus much more. The study lab also has tables and an area for group study sessions. WorkFirst staff can help with things like homework completion, job search, resumes, and financial aid applications.
Study Lab Hours:
Fall, Winter, and Spring Quarters:
Monday - Friday 8 am to 4:30 pm
Summer Quarter:
Monday - Thursday 8 am to 4:30 pm
WorkFirst Eligibility:
Parents that are receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) through DSHS and who want to or who are participating in classes at Peninsula college in an approved program of study would be eligible for the WorkFirst Program. Since WorkFirst is a referral based program, you will need to notify your DSHS case manager that you are or want to participate in school so that a referral can be sent.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact:
WorkFirst/BFET Front Desk
(360) 417-6296
Edie McLennan
WorkFirst Coordinator
emclennan@pencol.edu | (360) 417-6259
Office Location: P4