May 9—Roosevelt County recently announced they are planning to partner with the New Mexico Public Education Department (NMPED) to host a summer internship program for local high school students.

According to a release, the county has applied for the program for three consecutive years. "If awarded funding, we are anticipating being able to place up to 40 student interns," said Lauren Bagwell, human resources coordinator.

The six-week program would have the interns working 20 hours per week. The release wrote, "Partnering entities would provide students real world, on-the-job experience to aid them in gaining employable skills and knowledge to aid them as they prepare to enter the workforce."

If the program is funded, Roosevelt County will handle all payroll expenses.

Students eligible for the program must be at least 15 years old and can range up to those that will graduate this May. If a student is 15, however, they will have to obtain a work permit from the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions. If the student is over 16, no permit is required.

The release stated the positions will be awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Bagwell writes that an application must be filled out and turned into the Roosevelt County Administration Office, on the 3rd floor of the courthouse, located at 109 W 1st Street in Portales. The application will be posted on the county's website under Human Resources.

Anyone with any questions is invited to contact Bagwell at 575.356.5307.