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Summer Work Experience in Austin, TX (SWEAT)

Summer Work Experience in Austin, TX (SWEAT) provides students with a month-long independent living experience that includes paid work at a local job site and independent travel using public transportation.

Summer Work Experience in Austin, Texas (SWEAT) Ages 16-22

June 8 – July 4

The Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired is excited to collaborate with the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) to host Summer Work Experience in Austin, Texas (SWEAT). SWEAT is an experiential learning program designed to prepare students for independence and success after high school. This program will provide:

  • Intensive training in Expanded Core Curriculum skills with a particular focus on independent living skills, Orientation and Mobility skills, and social skills
  • Lessons on employability and transition skills
  • An individual paid job opportunity in the Austin community supported by a job coach

Student cleaning gym equipment

Requirements to Apply

  • Students should be academically on or near grade level*
  • Students should be able to work alone at a job placement
  • Students must be on the vocational rehabilitation services caseload of TWC. Students must have an open and active account with TWC (not Blind Children’s Program/HHSC). If you are uncertain about your status, contact your TWC Transition Counselor as soon as possible
  • Students may be required to participate in an online interview via Zoom

Student working with medical supplies

Student Expectations

  • Students are expected to complete in-class assignments and homework assignments related to employability and independent living skills.
  • Students are expected to use a cane for mobility at all appropriate times.
  • Students are expected to spend weekends on campus during SWEAT.
  • Students will earn an hourly wage approximately equivalent to the minimum wage after deductions. Students will be expected to use some of their wages to pay a minimal amount for living expenses. The purpose of this activity is to help students learn to budget and pay bills. Beyond these expenses, students may use their earnings as they wish.

Contact Us to Learn More

For information about program content, contact the SWEAT Coordinators:

For information about the application process, contact the Short-Term Programs administrative team:

*If your student uses a modified or alternate curriculum, please contact Eden Hagelman to learn about other programs that could meet your student’s needs. Options include Working and Living in the Community (WALIC) and classes within the Secondary Enrichment Program.