Page 663

MISSISSIPPI [ PROGRAM COMPONENTS: TANF WORK ACTIVITES DEFINED] Revised 08 - 01 - 12 four consecutive weeks of participation, that individual’s participation in job readiness/job search will not count for one week, i.e., 7 consecutive days. For example, if a participant is assigned to job readiness/job search for six consecutive weeks, JAWS will only include the attendance data for weeks one, two, three, four and six in the participation rate calculation. JAWS will not include the attendance data entered for the fifth week in the participation rate calculation. If an individual is not placed in employment after four (4) weeks of job readiness/job search, there must be a break of one full week before additional hours can be assigned to the individual (refer to Assessment after Job Readiness/Job Search). NOTE: County directors will ensure job readiness/job search classes/activities are scheduled for months which include four weeks in the report month, when possible. In counties where there are heavy caseloads and ongoing job readiness/job search classes are conducted, the county director and case management staff must monitor weekly attendance data to ensure all participants meet their individual monthly participation requirement. Job Readiness Activities Job readiness activities are defined as coordinated, planned, and supervised classes or individual exercises that help TANF Work Program participants prepare for work. Participants are taught general work place expectations. This may include guidance and motivation to develop positive work attitudes and behaviors necessary to compete successfully in the labor market. Structured job readiness activities (curricula, skill assessments, job club, etc.) will be scheduled for forty (40) hours per week (eight hours per day.) Job readiness assistance consists of two activities: 1. A uniform, structured basic and enhanced training curriculum administered to prepare an individual to obtain employment, such as preparing a resume or job application, interviewing skills, instruction in work place expectations, and life skills training. Basic job readiness/life skills are structured activities centered around methods to obtain and retain employment. Activities included are: self-assessment focusing on current skills, abilities, interest and goals, appropriate dress, hygiene, grooming, work ethic, employer expectations, completing applications, interviewing, money management, self-esteem, nutrition and life skills training including balancing life and work, household management, interpersonal skills, decision making skills and time management. Activities will be scheduled for forty (40) hours per week (eight hours per day.) Enhanced job readiness includes in-depth activities with individual attention between the participant and the facilitator focusing on the participant’s strengths and weaknesses and

Volume III | Chapter 9 9062