The Discovery Bay CSD Board has unanimously approved the implementation of a districtwide student internship program. Outreach on the unpaid position is expected to begin within the next 30 days and will extend to area high schools and universities.

“I’m very pleased the board has decided to give this program a chance,” said CSD Vice President Brian Dawson, who spearheaded the project. “I think this will be beneficial for everyone.”

Dawson brought the idea before the CSD board in October, asserting that an administrative intern program – or work experience project – could offer unique on-the-job opportunities for students while supporting the district’s limited office staff.

“There is a plethora of administration work and research work to be done here at the town,” said Dawson in a previous interview with The Press. “And these kids have an innate ability with the Internet and conducting research that we can utilize.”

A tentative job description was presented to the CSD board at its regular meeting on Feb. 2, citing a range of possible duties, including assistance in the accounting, general manager, general services and operations departments. Assignments would be presented based on a student’s interest, qualifications and experience.

The methods of recruitment, scheduled work hours and reporting guidelines are still to be determined. Student interns must either be enrolled in high school or possess the equivalent of a GED, be involved in a variety of vocational training programs or in an accredited college or university, carrying at least six units per school term.

“We would definitely like this to be something that involves students,” said General Manager Rick Howard. “Whether it be helping to digitize plans, or helping with a specific project, we want to be able to give them a pretty good overall look at how the district works and in turn make it something worthwhile for them.”

All of the interns’ work will be overseen by a district staff member and subject to review.

“It would be kind of like an exit exam,” said Dawson. “We can ask the students (and staff) how the experience went for them and what ways we could have made it better for them. Then we can learn from what they say and continue to improve each time.”

For additional information on the program or to apply for the internship program, call the town offices at 925-634-1131.