By Jennifer Gonzalez-Hernandez The Howler
Every student at Detroit Cristo Rey has a full-time, corporate position and works one day a week. Not a typical description of a high school student, but it is a requirement for students to attend the school.
“Cristo Rey is a place of hope” principal Susan Rowe said. “It’s goal is to provide a quality Catholic, college-prep education for students who are challenged by the effects of poverty. It is a place that encourages students to believe in themselves and strive for excellence in all aspects of life.”
The work-study program allows students to see first hand how the real world works. Students are placed in entry-level corporate jobs at companies such as General Motors, Chrysler, Clark Hill, Art Van and Madonna University.
Cristo Rey students work a regular eight-hour day once a week, and businesses like GM offer to pay the school a fee for that student’s work. A portion of the fee goes toward the student’s tuition as well as school operation costs. This arrangement helps make the Catholic school tuition affordable.
The Corporate Work Study Program has also helped contribute to the school’s 100% college acceptance for four consecutive years. Cristo Rey develops students in and out of the classroom. Students learn how to interact with professional adults, like the coach of the Red Wings or a lawyer for General Motors. All freshmen participate in summer training, students learn how to introduce themselves, shake hands, tie a tie and answer the phone – skills many students don’t develop at 14.
“I love the involvement I have with the different groups, the friendly environment and the work that I am given.” said senior Diego Barajas, an employee at Fiat Chrysler. Barajas has worked at Fiat Chrysler since he was a freshman. He is a part of the supply chain management group there.
Cristo Rey also has many events where they reach out to the community for help to continue providing affordable college-prep education and an even bigger perk is students are invited and usually one or two students will give a speech.
Since Cristo Rey students work one day they only attend classes for four days a week. To make up for the missed day in class, the curriculum is structured so the school days are a bit longer than other schools. A regular day at Cristo Rey starts at 7:30 a.m. and ends at 4 p.m.
“DCR is special because from the custodian to the president, each faculty member wants each student to be successful and are willing to do anything possible to help,” Barajas said.
