W-WCHS seniors have a special distinction they can add to their job applications, resumes, and college applications this year. Representatives from Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue’s office visited the high school on Tuesday, November 24, and administered the Georgia Work Readiness Test to the senior class. Eighty-six percent of the Class of 2010 is now classified work ready.

The Georgia Work Ready Assessment measures skills in three categories: locating information, applied mathematics, and reading for information. Four levels of work readiness can be achieved: bronze, silver, gold, and platinum. Scoring in any of the four levels of work readiness earns test takers certification from the state.

Seventeen W-WCHS seniors earned the bronze certificate, and 36 earned the silver certificate.

In addition to demonstrating the skills required for the majority of jobs available in the workforce, gold level performance on the assessment shows that the student is prepared for college level work without remediation. Test takers who achieve the platinum level demonstrate skills necessary for premium jobs and that they are prepared for honors level college work.

Thirteen W-WCHS seniors earned gold certificates. Two students earned platinum certificates.

The Georgia Work Ready Certificate, along with a high school diploma, better prepares students for their future, whether they look for immediate employment or further education or both – within Georgia and across the nation.

A Work Ready Certificate tells an employer that the applicant is ready to go to work with the skills needed for the job. Employers know that hiring Work Ready certified applicants can reduce turnover and improve efficiency, two positive boosts to any bottom line.

Communities that encourage their graduating seniors and adult workers to become certified can be recognized as a Georgia Certified Work Ready Community. A Georgia Certified Work Ready Community enhances its possibilities for economic development by best using the skills of their high school graduates.

The Georgia Work Ready Certification program was made available for W-WCHS seniors through Ath- ens Technical College at no charge. For more information, contact Don Bridges, counselor, or Lou Bentley, CTAE Supervisor, at WWCHS.