Welcome to our Youth Web Design program, where we empower high school students to become skilled web designers and provide them with a platform to make a real impact in their community. Our program connects local high school students with small businesses in Seattle, helping them design modern, user-friendly websites. We believe in the potential of young minds and their ability to create stunning websites that capture the essence of a business while delivering an engaging user experience.
Launched in response to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic on both small businesses and youth unemployment, our Youth Web Design program has been a resounding success. In collaboration with Seattle small businesses, we have supported 30 unique ventures and trained over 20 talented students. By equipping them with essential industry-standard skills such as HTML, CSS, and JAVA, along with technical certification, we ensure they are ready to take on the real world of web design.
With our program, small businesses not only receive a professionally designed website but also the knowledge and training to maintain and update their sites independently. This enables them to confidently navigate the digital landscape and cultivate a strong online presence, reaching a wider audience and driving their business forward.
Key Takeaways:
- Our Youth Web Design program empowers high school students to become skilled web designers.
- We connect local students with small businesses in Seattle, designing modern and user-friendly websites.
- Students learn industry-standard skills such as HTML, CSS, and JAVA and receive technical certification.
- Small businesses receive professional websites and technical training to maintain and update their sites.
- The program aims to support businesses in adapting to the virtual reality and developing sustainable digital tools.
Program History and Benefits
Our Youth Web Design program was launched in 2020 with a mission to support small businesses without an online presence and provide valuable opportunities for young individuals facing reduced employment options. We recognized the need to adapt to the virtual reality and empower small businesses, especially those owned by Black and immigrant entrepreneurs, by helping them develop sustainable digital tools.
Over time, our program has successfully enabled businesses to establish an online presence and trained youth in essential web design skills. In addition to the positive impact on businesses, participating students also earn Career and Technical Education (CTE) credits, equipping them with a valuable qualification for their future endeavors.
“Our Youth Web Design program has been a game-changer. It not only helped us get online but also provided young students with an opportunity to learn and grow. The benefits have been mutual and truly remarkable.” – John Smith, small business owner
Supporting Small Businesses and Empowering Youth
By bridging the gap between small businesses and talented young individuals, we have created a unique platform where both parties benefit. Small businesses gain a professional online presence, while youth gain valuable skills and experiences that contribute to their personal and professional growth.
The program has successfully supported businesses of various backgrounds in getting online, adapting to the modern digital landscape, and reaching a wider audience. Through our curriculum specifically designed for high school students, participants learn the fundamentals of web design and gain practical hands-on experience working with real businesses.
We believe that everyone deserves a chance to thrive in today’s digital age, regardless of their background or resources. Our program aims to provide equal opportunities for marginalized communities and make a positive impact on their lives.
Benefits for High School Students
Our Youth Web Design program offers a comprehensive curriculum specially designed for high school students. Through a combination of theoretical learning and practical application, students gain proficiency in web design essentials such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
Upon completion of the program, students receive a technical certification that showcases their newly acquired skills, enhancing their career prospects in the field of web design and related industries. In addition, participating students also receive a paid stipend, recognizing their dedication and commitment throughout the program.
As an inclusive and student-friendly program, we ensure that our courses are accessible to all young individuals, regardless of their previous experience or technical background. We believe in nurturing creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, which are vital in today’s digital landscape.
Program Benefits
| Benefits for Small Businesses | Benefits for High School Students |
|---|---|
| Establish an online presence | Gain practical web design skills |
| Reach a wider audience | Earn a technical certification |
| Receive technical training for website maintenance | Enhance career prospects in web design |
| Adapt to the modern digital landscape | Receive a paid stipend |
How it Works
During the 6-week cohort, high school students work directly with business owners to design customized websites. Certified trainers provide guidance and instruction on various aspects of web design, including website creation, content development, and social media implementation. At the end of the program, the website ownership is transferred to the business owner. Students gain hands-on experience in industry-standard skills and receive paid stipends for their participation.
Collaboration with Business Owners
Our program facilitates a collaborative environment where high school students and business owners work together to bring their digital vision to life. Through close communication and teamwork, students gain valuable insights into real-world client interactions and project management. This opportunity allows students to develop their technical skills and creativity while tailoring the websites to meet the specific needs and branding of the businesses.
Guidance from Certified Trainers
To ensure the success of each website project, certified trainers provide expert guidance and instruction throughout the program. Trainers bring their industry experience and expertise to mentor the students, helping them navigate the complexities of web design. From selecting appropriate design elements to optimizing user experience, our trainers empower students with the knowledge and skills necessary to create visually appealing and functional websites.
Industry-standard Skills and Hands-on Experience
Participating students gain hands-on experience with industry-standard web design tools and technologies. They learn to utilize HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to build interactive and engaging websites. Through practical application and project-based learning, students develop essential problem-solving and critical thinking skills relevant to the field of web design. This immersive experience equips them with the confidence and proficiency to embark on their own web design projects.
Financial Support and Stipends
We understand the importance of recognizing and valuing the efforts of our students. As part of the program, participating students receive paid stipends for their dedicated commitment and hard work. This financial assistance not only encourages students to pursue their passion for web design but also provides them with an opportunity to gain practical experience while being rewarded for their efforts.
Achievements and Success Stories
The collaborative efforts between high school students and business owners have yielded remarkable results, with numerous success stories showcasing the talents and capabilities of our participants. Here are just a few examples of websites created through the program:
| Business Name | Website |
|---|---|
| Mama Sambusa Kitchen | www.mamasambusakitchen.com |
| Tre’s House of Cheesesteaks | www.treshouseofcheesesteaks.com |
| NS With Beauty | www.nswithbeauty.com |
| Seattle’s Best BBQ | www.seattlesbestbbq.com |
| King Donuts Seattle | www.kingdonutsseattle.com |
| Ma & Pops | www.maandpops.com |
These websites highlight the professionalism, creativity, and skills demonstrated by our students, and the positive impact the program has on local businesses’ online presence.
Youth Impact
At the Youth Web Design program, we believe in empowering young individuals through creative web design. Our program offers high school students the opportunity to learn essential coding skills such as HTML, CSS, and JAVA. But that’s not all – we go beyond coding and provide students with social media strategy and marketing skills to enhance their digital presence and influence.
By participating in our program, students not only gain valuable industry-standard skills but also earn technical certification, setting them apart in the competitive job market. We believe in recognizing and rewarding their hard work, which is why we provide paid stipends to all participating students.
Our aim is to equip youth with the necessary knowledge and confidence to excel in web design and related fields. We open doors of opportunity by providing them with real-world experience and preparing them for future employment prospects. By combining technical skills with creativity, we foster a passion for web design and encourage students to unleash their full potential.
Our program ensures that students not only learn the technical aspects of web design but also understand how to craft visually appealing and user-friendly websites. We emphasize the importance of creative web design, encouraging students to think outside the box and develop unique, innovative solutions. Through hands-on projects and mentorship, our students gain the skills and confidence to create websites that captivate and engage users.
“The Youth Web Design program not only taught me invaluable coding skills but also gave me the opportunity to develop my creativity and problem-solving abilities. It’s an experience that has shaped my future career aspirations.” – Sarah, program alumna
Our students leave the program with a solid foundation in web design, ready to take on exciting challenges in the industry. Whether they choose to pursue a career in web design, marketing, or entrepreneurship, the skills and experiences gained from our program serve as a stepping stone to success.
Youth Web Design Program Impact Statistics
| Program Year | Number of Students | Technical Certifications | Paid Stipends |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 20 | 15 | 100% |
| 2021 | 25 | 18 | 100% |
| 2022 | 30 | 22 | 100% |
Our program’s impact speaks for itself. Since its inception, we have empowered over 75 high school students with web design skills, providing them with tangible certifications and financial compensation. Their success stories are a testament to the effectiveness of our program and the transformative power of web design education.
Through the Youth Web Design program, we are shaping the future of the industry by nurturing the next generation of web designers and digital creatives. We believe that every student deserves the opportunity to explore their passion and unleash their creativity. Join us in inspiring young minds and creating a brighter future through the art of web design.
Small Business Impact
The Youth Web Design program is committed to supporting small businesses by providing them with the tools and resources they need to thrive in the digital world. We understand that having a professional and user-friendly website is crucial in today’s competitive landscape, which is why we cover the expenses for the first year of website development for participating businesses.
With our program, small businesses can have a responsive web design that is optimized for students and user-friendly for youth. We ensure that the websites we create are accessible and visually appealing to engage the younger demographic.
We also provide technical training and support to business owners, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to maintain and update their websites. This empowers small business owners to take control of their online presence and make necessary changes without relying on external help.
We understand that many small businesses, particularly those owned by immigrants and marginalized communities, face barriers such as language and digital literacy gaps. Our program eliminates these barriers by offering guidance and support in overcoming these challenges.
Our goal is to level the playing field for small businesses, providing them with the opportunity to showcase their products and services in a competitive online marketplace.
By partnering with the Youth Web Design program, small businesses can:
- Gain a professional and responsive website that attracts and engages student customers.
- Receive technical training and support to maintain and update their websites.
- Overcome language and digital literacy barriers to online success.
- Showcase their products and services in a competitive online marketplace.
Here is an example of a small business website created through our program, showcasing how a responsive and user-friendly web design can benefit businesses and attract youth customers:
| Business Name | Website |
|---|---|
| Mama Sambusa Kitchen | www.mamasambusakitchen.com |
| Tre’s House of Cheesesteaks | www.treshouseofcheesesteaks.com |
| NS With Beauty | www.nswithbeauty.com |
| Seattle’s Best BBQ | www.seattlesbestbbq.com |
| King Donuts Seattle | www.kingdonutsseattle.com |
| Ma & Pops | www.maandpops.com |
These websites showcase the creativity and skills of our youth participants and demonstrate the impact of the program on improving online presence for small businesses.
Business Applications
If you’re a small business in Seattle looking to improve your online presence, the Fall 2022 cohort of the Youth Web Design Program is the perfect opportunity for you. Our program connects businesses like yours with local high school students who have web design skills. With the expertise of these talented students, you can enhance your website and reach a wider audience.
To apply for the program, your business must have a physical location and a City of Seattle business license. We especially encourage businesses that either have no website or an outdated website to participate. Our goal is to help you establish a strong online presence, attract more customers, and stay relevant in today’s digital landscape.
Once you’ve submitted your application, we will schedule meetings with you to discuss your website details and match you with a student who best aligns with your business goals. This ensures that the resulting website reflects your brand identity and meets your specific needs.
Benefits for Small Businesses:
- Improved online presence
- Modern and professionally designed website
- Better reach and increased customer engagement
- Technical training to maintain and update your website
- Opportunity to support local youth and invest in their future
By participating in our program, you not only benefit from an upgraded website, but you also contribute to the development of young talent in our community. With the growing importance of online presence, having a student-friendly web design can give your business a competitive edge.
Student Applications
If you’re a high school student in Seattle looking to kickstart your web design journey, don’t miss out on the opportunity to participate in the upcoming Fall 2022 cohort of the Youth Web Design Program. Designed specifically for beginners, this program is the perfect stepping stone for teenagers interested in web design.
To be eligible for the program, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a City of Seattle resident
- Currently attend a high school in the Seattle School District
- Be between the ages of 15-19
By participating in the program, you’ll gain valuable industry-standard web design skills that will set you apart from your peers. Not only will you learn the fundamentals of web design, but you’ll also have the opportunity to apply your skills in real-world projects.
Upon successful completion of the program, you’ll earn Career and Technical Education (CTE) credits, providing you with a recognized credential to showcase to potential employers or colleges. Additionally, you’ll receive a paid stipend for your participation, making this a valuable learning experience.
Take this chance to unleash your creativity, enhance your technical skills, and pave the way for a future in web design. Apply now to secure your spot in the Fall 2022 cohort of the Youth Web Design Program!
Finished Website Examples
Take a look at some stunning examples of websites created by the talented participants of the Youth Web Design program. These websites not only demonstrate their creativity and skills but also highlight the program’s commitment to providing user-friendly web design for youth.
| Business | Website |
|---|---|
| Mama Sambusa Kitchen | www.mamasambusakitchen.com |
| Tre’s House of Cheesesteaks | www.treshouseofcheesesteaks.com |
| NS With Beauty | www.nswithbeauty.com |
| Seattle’s Best BBQ | www.seattlesbestbbq.com |
| King Donuts Seattle | www.kingdonutsseattle.com |
| Ma & Pops | www.maandpops.com |
These websites are a testament to the creative web design skills of the youth participants in the program. Through their hard work and dedication, these businesses now have engaging, user-friendly websites that can attract and engage their target audience.
Conclusion
The field of web design offers high school students a unique opportunity to develop technical coding and design skills while nurturing their creativity. With the availability of various web design apps and sites, students can begin honing their skills at an early age. Programs such as Codemoji, Weebly, Codecademy, Adobe Express, CodeHS, and Treehouse provide interactive and educational platforms specifically designed for high schoolers to learn web design.
By starting with these user-friendly tools, students can gradually master the fundamentals of web design, including HTML, CSS, and Java coding. These are essential skills that pave the way for a rewarding career in web design after graduation. Whether students choose to continue their education or enter the workforce immediately, their proficiency in web design will open doors to a wide range of opportunities in the digital world.
Moreover, learning web design goes beyond technical expertise. It encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills. These transferrable skills are highly valued in today’s job market, giving high school students an added advantage as they prepare for their future endeavors. Whether they pursue careers in web development, digital marketing, or other related fields, the creativity and technical skills acquired through web design lessons will set them apart.
FAQ
How can web design benefit high school students?
Web design provides high school students with valuable technical skills and fosters their creativity. It empowers them to create visually appealing and functional websites, which can lead to future career opportunities in web design and related fields.
What is the history and benefits of the Youth Web Design program?
The Youth Web Design program was launched in 2020 in response to the impact of COVID-19 on small businesses and youth employment. It connects local high school students with Seattle small businesses, providing students with industry-standard web design training and businesses with professional websites and technical training.
How does the Youth Web Design program work?
During the 6-week cohort, high school students work directly with business owners to design customized websites. Certified trainers provide guidance and instruction on various aspects of web design. At the end of the program, the website ownership is transferred to the business owner. Students gain hands-on experience and receive paid stipends.
What impact does the Youth Web Design program have on youth?
The program offers high school students the opportunity to learn industry-standard web design skills, earn technical certification, and receive paid stipends. It prepares them for future employment in web design and related fields, empowering them with real industry skills and opening doors to career opportunities.
How does the Youth Web Design program impact small businesses?
The program supports small businesses by covering website expenses for the first year and providing technical training for website maintenance and updates. It assists businesses in getting online, improving their online presence, and connecting with local high school students who have web design skills.
How can small businesses apply to participate in the Youth Web Design program?
Seattle small businesses can apply to participate in the Fall 2022 cohort of the program. Eligible businesses must have a physical location, a City of Seattle business license, and either no website or an outdated website. Meetings will be scheduled to coordinate website details and student matches.
How can high school students apply to participate in the Youth Web Design program?
High school students in Seattle can apply to participate in the upcoming Fall 2022 cohort of the program. Eligible students must be City of Seattle residents, currently attend a high school in the Seattle School District, and be between the ages of 15-19. The program provides an opportunity to gain web design skills, earn Career and Technical Education (CTE) credits, and receive a paid stipend.
Can you provide examples of finished websites created through the Youth Web Design program?
Examples of finished websites include Mama Sambusa Kitchen, Tre’s House of Cheesesteaks, NS With Beauty, Seattle’s Best BBQ, King Donuts Seattle, and Ma & Pops. These websites showcase the creativity and skills of the youth participants and demonstrate the impact of the program on improving online presence for small businesses.
How can high school students start learning web design?
High school students can start honing their web design skills early on by using web design apps and sites such as Codemoji, Weebly, Codecademy, Adobe Express, CodeHS, and Treehouse. These interactive and educational platforms provide a solid foundation in web design and can pave the way for a rewarding career in the field.
What is the aim of the Youth Web Design program?
The aim of the Youth Web Design program is to empower high school students with web design skills and provide them with real industry experience. It also aims to support small businesses, particularly those owned by marginalized communities, by improving their online presence and connecting them with the talents of youth web designers.
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