NATCHEZ — Students can get a hands-on glimpse of the real world this summer through a program offered by the Natchez-Adams School District.

The Natchez-Adams School Board Thursday approved the AJFC Community Action Agency’s Summer Youth Career Recovery Opportunity Program, which pairs in-school and out-of-school youth ages 16 to 24 with working professionals.

The program, funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, started June 7 and ends July 31.

According to a AJFC memorandum, AJFC pays all participants $7.25 per hour for up to 40 hours a week. Work hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. The memo states those who work overtime would be paid extra by their respective employer.

NASD Human Resources Director John Sullivan said jobs range from clerical to maintenance positions. On-the-job liabilities will be covered by the employer, he said.

Youth outside the school district are eligible to participate, although they are subject to background checks, Sullivan said.

The board also discussed the approval of summer school and grant programs. While each program passed unanimously, board member Dr. Benny Wright emphasized the importance of acquiring more data to prove the effectiveness of academic programs.

He said that data, such as improved test scores, would be helpful to ensure accountability.