Cal-Learn

The Cal-Learn Program targets dependent, pregnant teens and teenage parents. Cal-Learn addresses the unique educational, vocational, training, health and other social services needs of these teens. The goal is to help them stay in school or return to school or its equivalent and earn a diploma. Cal-Learn accomplishes this goal by providing financial incentives, support services and intensive case management.

Eligibility

The Cal-Learn Program serves pregnant and/or parenting teens under the age of 20 who do not have a high school diploma or its equivalent. Teens under the age of 19 without a high school diploma or its equivalent are required to participate in Cal-Learn. 19 year olds without a high school diploma or its equivalent who are already enrolled in Cal-Learn can voluntarily continue to participate until they are 20.

Financial Incentives:

• An assistance unit with a teen parent or parents will receive up to four, $100 bonuses in a 12-month period for each teen parent that makes satisfactory progress in his or her school program.
• Each teen parent receiving a high school diploma or its equivalent within the month he or she turns 19 years old (20 years old for a voluntary 19-year old participant) will receive a $500 bonus.
• Child care, transportation and ancillary expense payments are provided to enable a teen parent to continue in or enroll in school.
• Intensive case management services are provided that include linking each teen parent to needed health and social services available in the teen parent's community.

Financial Disincentive:

• An assistance unit with a teen parent or parents will receive a $100 sanction (loss of $100 in financial aid) up to four times in a 12- month period for each teen parent who fails to make adequate progress in his or her school program without demonstrating good cause.

Frequently asked questions about Cal-Learn

1. Can my mother be my child care provider while I attend school?
Yes, if she is not in the assistance unit with the teen parent.

2. Can I receive a $100 bonus and the $500 bonus at the same time when I graduate from high school?
No, you can only receive the $500 bonus.

3. Can I receive help with graduation expenses?
Yes, you can make your requests through your Employment Counselor for approval.

4. What happens if I fail to attend school?
You may be subject to a financial sanction of $50 for two months if you fail to attend school without good cause.

5. How do I apply for Cal-Learn?
For more information or to apply for Cal-Learn, please go to any of our public contact offices.