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Labor Studies and Education in the Schools
It is our objective to help develop and distribute educational materials, and serve as a resource, for primary and secondary schools. We want to assist teachers, students, parents and other interested parties in learning about the history of the American labor movement, and how it helped change our society and the workplace. The current role of the labor movement, globally and domestically, can be integrated into curriculum. It is our observation that despite the changing nature of what is work, many of the same day to day problems and challenges exist regardless of the "color of the collar". Our efforts will be concentrated in two vital areas:
Labor History Pennsylvania was the cradle of the American labor movement. The struggle for workers organization and representation is one of the defining experiences of American democracy. Laws protecting workers rights and workplace health and safety grew out of the struggles of Pennsylvania workers. The story provides an important part of our Commonwealth's heritage. Curricula and classroom resource materials will be developed focused on the central events of Pennsylvania labor history appropriate for use on both primary and secondary level. a) Mother Jones and the Kensington March-- Child Labor b) The Great Railroad Strike of 1877-- Workers and Technological Change c) The Battle of Homestead 1892. Worker Representation and Participation. d) Aliquippa's Steelworkers and the US Supreme Court in 1937. How American Labor Law came to be.
Teen Workers Rights Work for young people should be a rewarding experience. Besides the money earned, teens can learn to organize their time effectively, be more responsible, and learn the value of work. However, teens can also be an exploited workforce, suffer academically, and compromise their health and welfare because of their work experience. Many young workers face the risk of being injured or killed on the job. Annually 70 teens are killed and 70,000 injured seriously enough to warrant hospital emergency room treatment according to the Department of Labor. Young people, their parents, and employers need to be aware of and understand the rights and restrictions governing teen workers. By increasing their knowledge, teen workers will be more prepared to be successful workers and avoid work situations that put them at risk. The development and distribution of materials and curriculum should encourage open communication between teens, parents, and employers. A curriculum and resource package is being developed titled "From Students to Workers: Your Rights on the Job".
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