CalWORKs Policy - Department of Public Social Services

CW 42-762 -
Introduction to the Cal-
Learn Program
What is Cal-Learn?
Cal-Learn is a mandatory program for CalWORKs
pregnant or parenting teens under 19 years of age,
who receive cash assistance and have not yet
completed their high school education. The
Program requires participants to enroll in high
school or an equivalent program and provides
transportation and ancillary expenses to help them
complete their high school education. The program
also rewards teens with bonuses for satisfactory
progress and for receiving a high school diploma.
A Cal-Learn participant must meet the following
requirements:
• Has been enrolled in the program before the
age of 19 years;
• Is pregnant or a custodial parent (child is
aided in the same CalWORKs ; and
• Has not received a high school diploma or its
equivalent.
Was the Program suspended?
Yes, SB 72 suspended the Cal-Learn Program
effective July 1, 2011 to June 30, 2012. All funding
for Cal-Learn services have been eliminated except
for school bonuses and child care.
How does the suspension of Cal-Learn affect
pregnant and parenting teens?
All pregnant and parenting teens under the age of
20, who have not completed high school are now
required to participate in the Welfare-to-Work (WtW)
program.
While participating in WtW, the teens:
• Must meet the CalWORKs school
attendance requirements as a condition of
receiving aid.
• Will receive transportation and ancillary
expense reimbursement.