New report exposes how government program with eye-popping budget is failing vulnerable students
The Department of Labor has recently released a transparency report shedding light on the effectiveness of the Jobs Corps Program, a multibillion-dollar initiative designed for low-income young adults aged 16-24. The report revealed a meager success rate, prompting discussions about potential cuts as part of the Trump administration’s efforts to reduce waste.
According to the report, which examined 124 job centers, the average graduation rate varied between 32% to 38%, depending on the criteria used to define “graduating” from the program. With a budget of $1.7 billion in PY2023, the average cost per student was calculated to be $49,769.53, and the average cost per student per program year was $79,631.25.
Furthermore, the report highlighted that the average total cost per graduate ranged from $155,600 to $187,653. After completing the program, participants were mostly being hired in minimum wage positions, earning an average of $16,695 annually.
ETA Acting Assistant Secretary Lori Frazier Bearden emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in ensuring effective oversight and informed policymaking. The department’s commitment to providing detailed reports aims to maintain public trust and ensure that taxpayers are informed about the outcomes of their investment.
In addition to concerns about the program’s efficiency, recent reports have raised issues about criminal activities within Job Corps dorms, including instances of rape, drug dealing, and assault. This has sparked further discussions about the program’s overall impact and effectiveness.
Amidst these revelations, the Department of Labor, under the leadership of Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer, has taken steps towards greater transparency and accountability. In a recent announcement, the department pledged to return over $1 billion in unused COVID-era funding to taxpayers. Additionally, a $4 million contract for DEI consultation services and training in the Jobs Corps program has been canceled as part of ongoing efforts to streamline operations and eliminate wasteful spending.
As the Department of Labor continues to push for transparency and efficiency, it remains committed to upholding its responsibilities to the public and ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used effectively. With ongoing efforts to assess and improve programs like the Jobs Corps, the department aims to deliver better outcomes for participants and the broader community.
