Youth Development

Douglas ESD hosts monthly professional development activities specifically for youth-workers in Douglas County. This includes both in-school and out-of-school professionals that work with youth in any capacity outside (but connected to) academic learning. Working in partnership with OregonASK, the 2024-25 YD/PD will focus on the core components of the field of youth development, strengthen the network of youth development workers and organizations in Douglas County, and increase the quality of supports and program services offered to help youth explore and gain the skills they need to succeed in learning and life. Scheduled YD/PD can be found on the Professional Learning Calendar page.

Professional Learning Calendar

Youth succeed in life if they have at least one meaningful relationship with a caring adult. Douglas ESD Youth Mentors guide youth to plan meaningful futures and access the tools and supports they need to get there. Refer a youth via a secure online referral form to get individualized support from a mentor. Any educator, administrator, youth-worker, parent, or even the youth themselves can submit a referral. The referred youth will be contacted by an experienced and caring Youth Mentor.

Douglas ESD Mentors

Community leaders, educators and families are realizing now more than ever that there is no one-size-fits-all option for students graduating from high school. Douglas ESD coordinates the Douglas County Perkins Consortium and offers programs that complement the Career and Technical Education (CTE) classes offered in Douglas County high schools. Programs include a work-based learning specialist to help any Douglas County student connect to a hands-on work experience and Educational Combines to provide students with an intensive experiential learning opportunity focused on future career options. 

Work-Based Learning