We could not do what we do at STEP without the help of several amazing business partners in our community.  Community partners work with us to do mock interviews, job shadowing, and host STEP students in non-paid internships. Internships are scheduled 2-4 days a week for a few hours a day and usually last about … Read more »

On Friday, March 13th, we Amber Ruppert from the Ottumwa Job Corp came present information to our Employment classes about their programming.  Job Corp’s mission is to train young people to be successful in some of the fastest growing industries in our state.  Their goal is to teach students skills to be employable and independent … Read more »

Our DMPS 4+ programs participate in community service and volunteer projects throughout the year.  These activities not only give opportunities for students to practice work skills, but they help students build their resumes and give them experience to talk about in interviews.   This year we have partnered with the City of Des Moines and Des … Read more »

  So far this year we have had over 30 STEP students participate in non-paid internships.  Students are placed in rotations for 6-8 weeks for a couple hours a day.  While on these sites students are working to not only improve the skills related to the specific job, but they are developing employability soft skills … Read more »

We follow the DMPS school calendar and weather closures.  If school is cancelled due to poor weather, we will not have STEP classes or non-paid internships.  Jami will contact internship sites to let them know.  Please check DMPS social media and the local news for information.   https://www.dmschools.org/ District Calendar – Des Moines Public Schools (dmschools.org) … Read more »

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) is providing free tax preparation services from now until April 15th at two metro area locations.  Individuals that earn less than $47, 770 a year may be eligible for free tax preparation.  These services are available Monday through Friday at Polk County River Place (2309 East Euclid) and United Way … Read more »

We feel strongly that in order for students to be successful at work and in life they need to be healthy physically and emotionally. We are so grateful that we will be continuing a partnership with NEXT STEP Counseling this year. A certified social worker from will be conducting groups with our STEP students once … Read more »

We have been notified that there will be some changes to the Medicaid system that we wanted you to be aware of.  There is a third MCO company entering the system July 1st  so individuals receiving Medicaid may be switched to a different provider called Iowa Total Care.   Letters will be sent in March from DHS … Read more »

Central Perk has reopened for business.  Every Friday school is in session staff and visitors at Central Campus have an opportunity to purchase coffee and treats from our STEP students.  Hours for Central Perk are 8:00- 9:30 am. Students in STEP  gain experience taking orders, collecting money, making change, and preparing drink orders. They will … Read more »