4/7/26 Career Connections
Summary: Franklin High School Career Connections
Franklin High School Career Connections
Every other Tuesday, Franklin’s Career-Connected Learning Coordinator Mr. Ruiz will post upcoming college and career related events, important application deadlines, career training program opportunities, jobs, internships, service learning options, and other career-connected topics of interest to students and their families. Email dpruiz@seattleschools.org if you have anything you want placed in the newsletter.
Make an appointment with Mr. Ruiz if you have any questions about these opportunities or need assistance applying.
Part-Time Jobs
Local Hot Jobs List
The following jobs are nearby to Franklin, are part-time, and their managers are willing to hire students under 18 who have not yet graduated from high school. You can also check out the You can also check out the Jobs page on the Career-Connected Learning website with a list of job search engines and local companies that regularly hire high school students.
Game On! Kids Camp Seeking Summer Counselors (CPR Cash bonus)
Are you full of energy? Do you love working with kids? Most importantly… Do think every day should be an adventure?? Yeah? Game On! Kids Camp wants YOU on their team! $21/hr to start. Weekly pay!
What you’ll do:
- Lead awesome games, sports, and activities with a priority on kids’ laughter and learning
- Keep campers safe, happy, and moving all day long
- Help set up and break down camp equipment — teamwork makes the dream work!
- Enjoy being part of a fun, fast-paced team that loves summer
- Work at West Seattle, Queen Anne, or Magnolia Camps, 8am-4pm or 9am-5pm
What they are looking for:
- Comfort leading kids and motivating others to maintain the fun
- 16 Years or Older
- Naturally energetic, responsible, and always ready to dive into action
- CPR and First Aid Certified? Major advantage – gets you a $100 bonus!
Interested? Apply for Game On! Kids Camp
Metro Cruise Services Now Hiring for the Summer
Metro Cruise Services provide cruise terminal management, terminal security services, shore excursions and ground guest services for the Port of Seattle’s cruise ship operations.
Summer Jobs – Spend the summer supporting Seattle’s very busy and popular summer cruise operations along the Port. If you are passionate about customer service, hospitality, and the cruise industry – and are interested in working with a dedicated team of enthusiastic, motivated, energetic and well aligned professionals – this is a great job for you. Join a face paced environment where your positivity and dedication will leave a lasting impact. Help create memories that begin with a heartfelt “Welcome aboard” to a warm “Bon Voyage”.
Apply for Metro cruise for first consideration! Hiring is ongoing, and the job will close when all positions are filled.
Hiring Event: Friday, April 10, and Saturday, April 11, from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. at Pier 91. Bring your resume and interview on the spot!
Part-time Summer Jobs from previous newsletters still available
Pedalheads, a learn-to-ride bicycle day camp for ages 2-12, is currently hiring Bike Instructors to help run their 2025 spring break and summer programs. Their instructor positions are wonderful entry level jobs for youth to gain skills in relationship-building, teaching and leadership; and hours are also available as service-learning (you can do 40 hours of service-learning over Spring Break and then get paid throughout the Summer).
For more information about their programs, check out the Pedalheads website and then apply for Pedalheads Bike Camp Spring Break or apply for Pedalheads Bike Camp Summer now (or both!).
Pacific Science Center has ignited curiosity for more than 60 years. Since its founding as the nation’s first science and technology center, PacSci has worked to expand access to science, serve as a vital resource for educators, and fuel discovery and experimentation as a vibrant community laboratory. They host a Camp for Young Minds each summer.
Science Center Camp Aide is a part-time role at 5 different locations across Seattle. The Camp Aide will ensure smooth camp programming by providing support to classroom educators and camp location site leads as directed. This position upholds the mission to provide safe, interactive, week-long STEM camps for school age children to spark lifelong curiosity, significantly enhance the participant’s experience and expand Pacific Science Center’s role as a driving force for informal science education.
Apply to Pacific Science Center Now to secure your summer job early!
Looking for a local part-time job not listed above?
If the hot jobs above do not interest you, check out our custom Indeed.com search query to find local companies hiring teens.
To help you filter out the 100s of jobs on Indeed that do not hire teens, we have created a search query that limits part-time jobs open within a 5 mile distance from Franklin High School Get a filtered list and start applying now. These jobs are available for or catered to teens in high school and work with school schedules.
When you find a job on Indeed you like, you will need to create an Indeed account and then build an Indeed profile (including submitting a resume) before you can apply for jobs. After you build this profile, you only need to select the Apply button on a job listing, and it will instantly send your profile and resume to the employer for a very easy application process.
Drop-in Job Search, Resume Building, and Interview Help Now Available
If you need help applying and preparing for college, looking for a job, making a resume, or practicing for an interview, the College and Career Center is now open after school for drop-in help with Emily, our UW Dream Project intern. This is a great option for students who do not have time to schedule an appointment during the school day. As a working UW student, Emily has a lot of great insight and valuable tips to share with you! Drop-in help is available from 3:45 p.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Paid Internships
Don’t miss out on the Seattle Parks & Recreation Youth at Work Internship
Youth at Work Applications are officially open! High School students get PAID $21.52/hr while gaining professional experience in staff support roles at youth community centers around the city!
Applying requires a resume of educational and professional experience along with a letter of interest which clearly describes interest, skill, and abilities.
Need help with any of these steps in the process? Application assistance is available on Mondays at the following locations:
- Southwest Teen Life Center: 2:30-6:30 p.m.
- Meadowbrook Teen Life Center: 3:30-6:30 p.m.
The final deadline to apply is Tuesday, April 14 at 4 p.m. PST. This program is in partnership with Urban League, Seattle Parks and Recreation, and Associated Recreation Council!
Clean Water Ambassador Internship Applications Due April 22
King County and Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust (MSGT) are once again offering a paid internship for a cohort of 12 high school youth. Interns will learn about local environmental issues and solutions, and practice educating community members about these topics.
Who: For local high school youth at least 16 years old by July 7, 2026. MSGT strongly encourages applicants who are new to exploring environmental topics, and who are from diverse backgrounds and feel comfortable communicating in English.
When: Generally, Monday to Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. The internship begins on Tuesday, July 7 and ends on Friday, August 7.
Where: Interns meet in downtown Seattle and are strongly encouraged to take public transit, which they can ride for free!
Benefits: Earn $22 per hour.
Application Deadline: April 22
Seattle Youth Employment Program (SYEP) Applications Now Open
At Seattle Youth Employment Program (SYEP), participants are placed in professional and/or structured paid work settings within City departments, local businesses and non-profit agencies to apply their knowledge, gain hands-on experience, develop professional connections, and build their resume.
- Are you between 16-24 years old?
- Do you want a 6-8 week paid summer internship that matches your skills, career interests, and availability?
- Interested in earning $21.30 per hour to intern with City departments, participating non-profit
organizations, and local businesses? - Want to get training, one-on-one support and work experience
Apply for Seattle Youth Employment for Summer SYEP – Deadline is May 4 at 5 p.m.
Don’t Miss This Public Health Summer Internship Opportunity
Seattle Indian Health Board (SIHB) is a community health center that has provided services to American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) people for over 50 years. Their public health division, Urban Indian Health Institute, is providing a summer internship opportunity for high school Juniors and Seniors. Youth will explore public health career opportunities while gaining hands-on work experience and building connections in the field.
Who: This internship is open to high school students aged 16-18 who have an interest in AI/AN public health.
When: 20 hours/week for 8 weeks. The internship will run from June 29-August 21, 2026.
Where: Seattle Indian Health Board, International District Location
Pay: $21.30/hour
Learn More about Seattle Indian Health Board Public Health Summer Internship and Apply for SIHB Public Health Summer Internship ASAP (once you click the link, scroll down to the Youth Intern position to apply).
Upcoming Port of Seattle Internship Information Sessions (Applications officially open May 4)
Applications for the Port of Seattle high school internship program open May 4, so throughout the month of April they will be hosting a series of outreach sessions for students and parents to learn about the opportunity and how to best complete the application.
Please find the links to the virtual open houses below:
- Wednesday, April 15 from 5:30-6:15 p.m.: Join April 15 Meeting Via Teams
- Thursday, April 23rd from 4:30-5:15 p.m.: Join April 23 Meeting Via Teams
- Wednesday, April 29th from 5:30-6:15 p.m.: Join April 28 Meeting Via Teams
Qualified candidates are:
- 16 years old by the beginning of the internship
- Currently enrolled in high school or a GED completion program or recently graduated from high school (within 12 months)
- Authorized to work in the US
Find more information on the high school internship program. You can also review last year’s Summer 2025 High School Internship Application Guide to prepare for the application.
For other questions about the internship, reach out to: internships@portseattle.org.
Internship Opportunities from previous newsletters still available
Since its founding in 1977, The Miller Hull Partnership has been dedicated to fostering an equitable and inclusive workplace. The architecture profession has barriers to entry that make it difficult for many to consider it a viable career path. Open Studio was created to introduce architecture to a wide range of high school students who may not have had the opportunity to explore architecture and design.
Open Studio Internship: One full-time, paid internship is offered to a high school student who has completed their junior or senior year. For four weeks, this student may have an opportunity to tour construction sites, attend team meetings and work in a professional environment. Over the course of the summer, a portfolio of the intern’s work will be assembled and will culminate in a brief presentation on their last day. Transit expenses to get to our studio are covered. The application The application is available on the Miller Hull website.
Program Dates: 4 weeks beginning July 27, 2026 and ending on August 21, 2026.
Application Deadline: May 1
AIM Seattle is now accepting applications from individuals (ages 16+) who wish to learn more about disability, inclusion and advocacy to serve as paid interns at AIM’s arts camps for people with disabilities. Interns in this program are involved in one or more of our weekly classes by supporting group members, acting as a Lead for volunteers, assisting Teaching Artists and Support Staff, and assisting with set-up and clean-up before, during and after class. Interns will also determine their own learning goals and a special project to complete during their time in the program.
Summer interns are expected to commit to a minimum of one week of summer camp (Monday through Thursday), with the option of interning for 1-2 additional camp weeks. Summer camp season begins mid-July through the end of August.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. If you have any questions, or if you have any accessibility needs for completing this application, please don’t hesitate to reach out via email, or texting Laina at 765-586-2252.
The Summer 2026 SPS Career Quest internship applications are now open! These 2-4 week classes offer students the chance to gain work experience or complete a career intensive while earning money (hourly pay, stipend check, and gift card). Please share the information below and/or the slides attached as you see fit.
The preferred deadline to apply is March 20, 2026, with rolling applications until April for unfilled internships.
| Internship | Description | Dates/ Times |
| Amazon Periscope | 2- week career intensive at Amazon South Lake Union campus for current 10th grade students. Students receive ongoing mentorship from Amazon leadership, students earn 0.25 CTE credit and a $400 gift card upon completion | July 13-24, 9 a.m.-3pm, Monday through Friday Orientation week of June 22 |
| Career Quest | Students are placed at internships in a variety of fields (business, media arts, construction management) and attend class once per week, earning 0.5 CTE Credit and $21.30/ hour (I-9 hiring documentation required, must be 16) | July 6-30, Class on Mondays from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Franklin HS Internship Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays |
| Education Quest | 4-week internship at an SPS elementary school, mentored by a teacher students support social-emotional learning for younger students, earning 0.5 CTE credit and $21.30/hour (I-9 hiring documentation required, must be 16) | June 29-July 3, 7:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Monday through Friday Mandatory training and paperwork confirmations |
| Open Science Quest | 3-week career intensive at the Allen Institute in South Lake Union during which student dive deep into cell biology, neuroscience, and immunology. $500 stipend check and 0.5 HS credit. Students must have taken biology to apply. | July 7-27, 9 a.m.–3:30 p.m. |
| Tech Quest | 2-week career intensive at Franklin HS or nearby for current 9th grade students. Introduction to coding and tech careers. $500 gift card upon completion | July 20-30, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m., Monday through Friday |
Stay updated on all things internships on the District’s Regional Internships website
Seattle Public Schools’ Career and Technical Education (CTE) department maintains an Career Quest SPS Active directory of internships and other career-focused training programs that is updated throughout the year. The programs currently seeking students – and have open applications – are listed at the top. Programs that may not be accepting students now – but will in the future – are listed by CTE pathway below.
This is always the best place to start when looking for opportunities, but if you do not find something you like there, make an appointment with Mr. Ruiz to explore additional opportunities.
Worksite Learning (HS credit for work)
Students who are currently employed can earn high school credit (CTE or other elective credit) for completed working hours! Every 180 hours worked is equivalent to .5 high school elective credits plus an A to boost your GPA for college admissions.
Please reach out to Mr. Ruiz for more information and to pick up some important forms. Email dpruiz@seattleschools.org or stop by Room 205a during lunch or nutrition break to chat.
Eligibility for students seeking elective credit for their paid work experience:
- Student must be 16 years of age or older, be legally employed, and have taken a CTE course.
- Complete Bi-Weekly check-in forms documenting your hours.
- Complete a final evaluation form detailing how their specific work experience aligns with their educational goals, imparts work and financial understanding, and the ways this work experience impacts future career and educational opportunities.
College Prep, Fairs, and Info Sessions
Don’t Miss PTSA’s College Readiness Night– RSVP Now!
FAFSA? Deadlines? Common App? Deep breaths, Franklin families — we’ve got you. Whether you’re just starting to think about applications or deep in the FAFSA weeds, join us for College Readiness Night: an evening with an expert panel, your burning questions answered, and a light dinner provided.
- When: Monday, April 27, 2026, 6–8 p.m.
- Where: Franklin High School Library
- Who: Grades 9–12 Students & Families
Featured Speakers:
- Yvonne Chiu – Assistant Director of Admissions, University of Washington
- Cassey Yabes – Assistant Director of Admissions, Seattle University
- Nancy Le – Outreach Specialist, Seattle Promise
- Daniel Ruiz – Career-Connected Learning Coordinator, Franklin High School
- Jim Jeffreys – AP, PSAT/SAT Testing Coordinator, Franklin High School
More info: info@franklin-ptsa.org
Pre-College Experience Programs Now Accepting Applications
If you are considering a College Prep program, that actually increases your chances of being admitted to that university when it is time to apply, click on the university name below to learn more about their program offerings and how to complete their application.
This program is a great fit for motivated high school students, offering flexible online courses designed by Rice faculty. Students can explore topics like engineering, business and medicine, giving them a chance to gain experience that strengthens their college applications. Explore the Rice University Program
This program offers a flexible, online path for high school students to explore college-level subjects like business, law, and STEM. These courses are designed to fit seamlessly into a busy high school schedule. Dive into a subject of interest to inform your college decisions, build real-world skills, and gain experience that can help you in the future. Students earn a Certificate of Completion from Dartmouth. Explore the Program at Dartmouth
The Harvard Medical School Pre-College Online Certificate Program invites students to explore courses that spark curiosity. You can discover if a medical science subject you are passionate about could lead to a college major or a future career. Each course is taught by expert Harvard Medical School faculty and supported by mentors who guide students throughout their learning experience. Explore the Harvard Medical School Program
Summer is an ideal time for students to explore their interests, strengthen academic skills, and prepare for future college coursework. The Northwestern Pre-College Online Program offers engaging online courses in business, law, medicine, and STEM that help you do just that. Courses are led by Northwestern University faculty and supported by mentors who guide students throughout the experience. The program’s flexible schedule allows students to learn at their own pace—making it a great fit alongside school, jobs, or internships. Explore the Northwestern University Program
University of Notre Dame offers a flexible option for high school students interested in diving deeper into potential college majors and career paths. Explore fields like medicine, law, business, and psychology in a low-pressure environment. The 100% online, self-paced format allows them to manage their learning around busy schedules. The courses help build essential skills, including critical thinking and self-directed learning. Explore the University of Notre Dame Program
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Now is the time to start applying for as many scholarships as you can!
If you are looking for scholarship opportunities to help you pay for tuition or other living expenses for college, now is the time to start looking through the Franklin Scholarship Bulletin to get a head start on applying.
Alumni Association Scholarships open until April 30, now only ONE application and completed online
Now is the time to complete your Franklin Alumni Association Scholarship application. This year, it is a little different, and much easier, process. The Coach Moody, Franklin Alumni, North Star, and Gilman scholarships are all available through a single online application where you can upload transcripts, recommendations letters, and a resume of activities.
Application Deadline: April 30, 2026
Scholarship Fair: There will be a scholarship fair on April 22, 2026 all day in Room 205. You will be able to meet with the Scholarship Committee and get help completing your application. Sign up in the counseling office. Please reach out to faaandf@gmail.com with questions.
Scholarship Descriptions: Please click through the tabs below for more details.
Meet Alumni and Get Help with your Scholarship Application April 22
Franklin Alumni Scholarship Fair Day will be held on Wednesday, April 22, from 9:30 a.m.–3 p.m. in the Library.
Seniors are invited to come learn about scholarship opportunities and connect with Franklin Alumni. Students who would like scholarship support from Franklin Alumni should sign up in the Counseling Office. Students who sign up will be called down to attend the Scholarship Workshop on April 22 in the Library.
This year, FAAF is using one online application for four scholarships
Apply For Washington State Opportunity Scholarship: Career and Technical (CTS)
CTS is one of three pathways to high-demand, living-wage careers in Washington state offered by WSOS. In addition to paying full tuition to the schools in the eligible programs list, if you using your Seattle Promise dollars at one of the three Seattle Colleges, WSOS can cover the costs beyond tuition, such as housing, transportation, food, and more.
Award: up to $1,500 per quarter, every quarter, toward eligible associate degrees, certificates, or apprenticeships at eligible community or technical colleges. This scholarship cannot be used for Bachelor’s degree programs or Community College programs where you intend to transfer to a University after completion.
Deadline: April 15, 2026.
Description: If you’re interested in an associate degree, certificate, or apprenticeship from a community or technical college, or approved apprenticeship sponsor, then CTS is right for you! The application consists of a couple short answer questions. We aren’t scoring for grammar or writing ability! We want to learn about you and your story. No references or transcripts are needed to apply!
Apply for Washington State Opportunity Scholarship: Career and Technical (CTS)
Also, apply for the Horatio Alger CTE Scholarship, Deadline June 5
This year, 300 students will be awarded with CTE scholarships up to $2,500 to help fund their education. Funds may be used for tuition, child care, transportation, equipment, supplies, or other related costs.
To apply for a scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Have completed high school (or equivalency) by July 1
- Plan to attend a not-for-profit community college or trade/vocational school
- Enroll in an associate’s degree, certificate, or diploma program by September that will lead to employment
- Demonstrate financial need (applicants must show household income of $100,000 or less)
- Be a United States citizen
Apply Now for the Alger CTE Scholarship
Priority Deadline: June 5, 2026. Applications will be accepted until all scholarships have been awarded
Scholarships Available for Filipino Graduating Seniors
Filipino American Educators of Washington (FAEW) is proud to continue their longstanding tradition of awarding scholarships to graduating high school seniors of Filipino heritage, who are going on to pursue higher education.
Please note that students need a Gmail account in order to fill out the application online.
FAEW Scholarship Application Timeline:
- April 20, 2026 – Scholarship applications due
- May 26, 2026 – Scholarship winners notified
- June 9, 2026 – Scholarship award ceremony during FAEW General Membership
Apply for FAEW Scholarship Now by May 1.
Additional Scholarship Opportunities
Please make sure you review the scholarship details and eligibility requirements at the link below before applying. If you do not currently receive the Weekly Scholarship Newsletter by email, you can sign up here: Sign up for Weekly Scholarship Newsletter
Scholarship List: View All Scholarships
Featured Scholarships (details in link above),
- Ben Brock Memorial Scholarship — $7,600 (1 award)
- Deadline: April 14, 2026
- ESA National Scholarship — $15,000 (20 awards)
- Deadline: April 7, 2026
- Balkhi Foundation Higher Education Scholarships — $1,000 (10 awards)
- Deadline: April 6, 2026
Scholarship Opportunities from previous newsletters still available
Digital/Media Arts College Scholarship Offers 1-5k, Deadline April 1
The Bill Boehlke Scholarship application is currently available. Bill worked for both the Seattle Seahawks and the Seattle SuperSonics as a creative member of their communications departments. In memory of Bill, his family established this scholarship fund in 2020.
The scholarship is open to high school seniors in the state of Washington who are continuing their education to pursue a career in digital communications, including social media and video production. Awards range from $1,000-$5,000. The deadline to apply is April 8, 2026.
Below is a link to more specific information, plus a list of over 20 other scholarships available through the Renton Regional Community Foundation.
The Edwin M. Lee Community Leadership Award was established by the Lee Family to honor the late former Mayor of San Francisco and FHS alumnus, Ed Lee, and to assist students facing financial hardships in obtaining higher education. We encourage students who desire to pursue a career in the spirit of community and public service, social justice, and sustainability to apply.
Apply for the Edwin M. Lee Community Leadership Award!
Deadline: April 24, 206
SAEOP is seeking all interested and qualified Seattle Public High School graduating senior students (class of 2026) who wish to continue their education at a 2-year, 4-year college or vocational school. They are offering (3) $500 scholarships.
Download the Seattle Association of Education Office Professionals Scholarship Application. Deadline: Friday, May 1, 2026.
Completed scholarship application packages should be sent to:
Or email: kajohnson@seattleschools.org
Mail: Kathy Johnson, CEOE Lafayette Elementary 2645 California Ave SW Seattle, WA 98116
Training and Mentorship Programs
Seattle Skills Center Summer School Program Applications Now Open
Interested in earning CTE credit this summer? Construction, Health Careers, Welding, Maritime and more will be offered at high schools throughout the city beginning in July.
Summer Skills Center classes are introductory versions of what we typically offer during the school year. Transportation is not provided. Snacks and snack breaks are provided, but not lunch (with the exception of the maritime class aboard the Adventuress). Most Summer Skills Center classes will run from Tuesday, July 7 to Thursday, July 30 and our standard class schedule will be 10:00 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday, fully in person. Students have the opportunity to earn 0.5 Career and Technical Education (CTE) credits.
*Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until all positions are filled.
Financial Leadership Academy offers business, finance, and entrepreneurship training
Seattle Parks and Recreation’s Garfield Teen Life Center is offering a Youth Financial Leadership Skills Academy starting April 22. This 8-week program will educate and mentor youth to navigate the world of accounting and finance through hands-on learning in:
- Personal Finance
- Investing
- Career Readiness
- Entrepreneurship
- Bookkeeping
Program Details:
- Dates: April 22 – June 10, 2026
- Day/Time: Wednesdays at 4:30 p.m.
- Location: Garfield Teen Life Center (428 23rd Avenue, Seattle, WA 98122)
- Ages: High school youth ages 16-18
- Cost: Free
This is an excellent opportunity for students interested in business, finance, or entrepreneurship to gain valuable skills and knowledge that will benefit them in college and future careers.
(on-going enrollment until spots are filled)
Pre-Health Conference Provides Hands-On Preparation for Healthcare Careers and College Exploration
The Minority Association of Pre-Medical Students at the University of Washington invite you to the Pre-Health Conference at the Husky Union Building on Saturday, April 11th, 2026, from 9am-5pm. This in-person conference is the largest pre-health conference at the University of Washington and is open to all individuals at a high school, community college, and/or undergraduate college level.
Students will have the opportunity to…
- Network with healthcare professionals, advisors, and students across various career fields such as medicine, PA, dentistry, nursing, biomedical research and more!
- Connect with Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) at UW, graduate school admissions, community organizations in healthcare, and volunteer opportunities at our Resource Fair.
- Attend workshops to broaden students’ perspectives on what “healthcare” means, and how to be well-rounded healthcare professionals. Examples include:
- Learning hands-on techniques with a suturing workshop, dental workshop, as well as learning how to take vital signs and read diagnostic images.
- Preparing for medical school by learning about the admissions process and the MCAT.
- Understanding the impacts Social Determinants of Health have on underrepresented communities.
- Learning about the differences between the many areas of healthcare in various healthcare professions panels!
A light breakfast and lunch will be provided with ticket purchase.
For additional information about our Pre-Health Conference, please visit their website.
Summer Planning Academy (SPA) for High School Students interested in Planning Work
Are you curious about how cities grow, change, and develop? Have you ever wondered how governments decide where train lines should go? Do you have ideas about how to make our communities better places for everyone? If so, you should apply for the Summer Planning Academy (SPA)! The Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC) is looking for high school students from King County who want to learn about urban planning in our region and share ideas about how to make the central Puget Sound region a better place to live, work, and play.
SPA is a leadership development opportunity offered free of charge to students interested in planning a better future for our region. The program encourages students to think creatively about how better planning can help people lead better lives. Upon successful completion of SPA, students are eligible to receive a $500 scholarship.
SPA sessions will take place in Downtown Seattle on July 29, 31, August 5, and 7.
Visit the Puget Sound Regional Council website to learn more about PSRC, SPA, and apply for Summer Planning Academy (SPA) . Applications Close May 18
Training and Mentorship opportunities from previous newsletters
The MOPOP Residency is launching April 2026! This free after-school creative playground for young storytellers will explore a rotating lineup of music, film, fashion, and gaming.
For its debut Residency, MOPOP is partnering with NW Film Camp to bring students hands-on experiences in stop-motion, puppet-making, filmmaking, and more! Weekly workshops introduce young learners to stop-motion animation, puppet-making, video creation, and basic production workflows.
Residency highlights:
- Free for all participants
- Drop-in format: Join any single session or attend an entire residency
- No prior experience required! Open to all skill levels
- Open to ages 7-17, with students welcome on their own or with an adult
- Limited to 20 participants per session (RSVP for MOPOP Residency recommended but not required)
Learn more about the MoPOP Residency
If you have any questions, email education@mopop.org for assistance.
Since its founding in 1977, The Miller Hull Partnership has been dedicated to fostering an equitable and inclusive workplace. The architecture profession has barriers to entry that make it difficult for many to consider it a viable career path. Open Studio was created to introduce architecture to a wide range of high school students who may not have had the opportunity to explore architecture and design.
Open Studio Summer Intensive: A free, week-long educational opportunity at our Seattle studio, open to 24 students between 9th and 12th grade who want to take a deeper dive into the design process. For three hours each day, they will learn how to sketch and draw, think through a design problem with a teammate and present their work to a group, while receiving individualized feedback and counseling. One of the three-hour sessions will be used to take a field trip to enhance the participants’ understanding of the project. The application is attached and available on their website.
Program Dates: August 7 – 14, 2026 from 2–5 p.m.
Application Deadline: June 1, 2026
Join Youth In Focus this summer for a variety of fun, creative photography camps July 6-31. Whether you’re into digital or darkroom, they have something for you! Please email Community Engagement Manager, Shida shidab@youthinfocus.org, if you need help with camp registration. All camps are free, and equipment is provided. Half-day and full-day programs offered.
Camps include:
- Fashion Photography
- Photojournalism
- Portraits and Lighting
- Music Videos
- Darkroom
Get free virtual, weekly training on how to become a barista and work in customer service! Students ages 15 to 21 are invited to join a weekly online class from 2:30-4:30 p.m. for 6 weeks of job readiness, customer service and self-empowerment training.
Participants receive:
- A laptop to participate which they can keep after graduation
- Skills to get jobs & references
- Free food worker card
- A small weekly stipend ($) for your continued participation
You are much more likely to get a barista job (which are not easy to get) if you take this training.
Apply for the FareStart Virtual Barista and Customer Service Training
Service-Learning Opportunities
Seattle Transportation Summit Offers Service Learning Credit for Community Engagement
Are you ready to shape the future of your community? Join the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) as they host their third Youth Transportation Summit! The 2026 Summit aims to provide you with a better understanding of the transportation safety landscape in Seattle and across the region. You will have opportunities to share your thoughts, make suggestions for safety improvements, and speak directly to transportation safety professionals and leaders in Seattle, all while earning Service Learning credit. Lunch, snacks, and merch will be provided!
Date: April 25, 2026
Time: 9:00 a.m.-4 p.m.
Location: Union Station, 401 S Jackson St, Seattle, WA 98104
For more information and a detailed agenda, please check out the summit webpage here: Youth Summit Webpage
Register for 2026 Youth Transportation Summit by Friday, April 17 to guarantee your space.
Sign up now to Volunteer with Seattle Public Library for Service Hours in the Spring
Are you interested in earning your service-learning hours at Seattle Public Library’s Beacon Hill, Columbia, or Rainier Beach branches? This is a very popular volunteer opportunity, and spaces fill up quickly, so the Library is starting to recruit NOW for Spring service opportunities.
Fill out the SPL Volunteer Interest Form now, and you will be notified as soon as opportunities open for the Spring. In the meantime, visit the Libraries’ SPL Teen website for more information about other programs and services offered, including homework, tutoring, and college and job application help.
Service opportunities from previous newsletters
Launch is a local organization providing afterschool programs for elementary age students, as well as preschools throughout Seattle.
They are hoping to recruit some high school age volunteers for their annual Family Carnival, tentatively scheduled for May 30, 2026 at Van Asselt Community Center. See information about last years event.
Volunteers are asked for at least 2 hours, with potential of closer to 6 hours if you stay for set-up/clean-up. You also would be able to participate in the games and lunch would be provided!
For more information, email laura.nicholson@launchlearning.org
Need volunteer hours? Looking for an internship or independent study project? Interested in designing a garden, planting and harvesting food, or building a farm stand, garden beds, or compost bin?
The Beacon Food Forest is looking for teen volunteers to help in their Young People’s Garden in late 2025 and early 2026. If you’re 14-19 years old and curious about gardening, protecting the earth, growing food, design, construction, or mentoring younger kids, they’d love to have you join them!
Well-qualified volunteers may be offered paid positions mentoring younger children/youth in Spring/Summer of 2026.
Volunteer sessions are two hours and usually the 3rd Saturday of each month from 10am-12pm, starting in November (although you can begin any time).
If you’re interested or want to learn more, please contact eleanor@foodforest.ngo.
If you are looking to build your resume with a volunteer job entry while also earning most or all of your service learning hours, you should consider volunteering with 425 Tutoring for students grades K-6 in all subjects (Math, English, etc.)!
Must be a current high school student to participate. (Must be at least 14 years old)
- Develop individual lesson plans and activities using Google Slides, PowerPoint, etc.
- Virtually tutor using Google Meets, Zoom, etc. (All Virtual)
- Work with 2+ students per tutoring session
- 2-4 service hours per week (1- 2 hours of direct tutoring, 1-2 preparation)
- Must commit to 8 weeks of tutoring!
- Flexible times! Works with your schedule
Qualifications:
- Must use emailing services
- US High School Student OR 8th grade student, fluent in English, good with kids, access to internet
Seeking a Service Learning Opportunity?
If the programs featured in the newsletter do not match your needs or interests, check out our Franklin Service Learning website for further guidance.
Additional Resources:
- Just Serve – provides a listing of local volunteer opportunities that you can filter by available dates and times, interests, and skills used.
- Service Learning Directory is a listing of several organizations that offer long-term volunteer opportunities to get all of your hours in one place. This also allows you to enter the volunteer opportunity as work experience on your resume to help you get paid jobs in the future.
You can also make an appointment with Mr. Ruiz to talk more about what you might be interested in doing and get help finding the right opportunity.
