GE Appliances teaming with schools for new work program

GE Appliances says it's teaming with Kentucky's largest school district for an initiative that offers work experience and college tuition for students.

The Louisville-based appliances maker predicts the partnership with Jefferson County Public Schools will become a national model.

The company says one program will allow high school seniors to join a new, weekly two-day workforce that provides $14-per-hour wages and up to $6,000 in college tuition per year. Student participants will work on Mondays and Fridays.

GE says the program will help fill staffing needs when full-time workers use vacation and discretionary days.

The company says another program will offer virtual classroom experiences for students in the Academies of Louisville manufacturing program at Doss High School in Louisville. Students will be able ask GE employees about career opportunities.