By Andrea Calcagno
 
November 2, 2009
 
MEDFORD, Ore. - Low income Oregonians collecting unemployment can now get their benefits extended for attending school.
 
Those who claim unemployment benefits on wages less than $9.24 an hour can apply for the retraining. They must enroll in a short-term program for a job that pays a higher wage than that.
 
"These are programs like automotive technology, diesel technology, construction, electronics. We have nursing, early childhood education, hands-on types of programs that are normally two-year trainings," Rogue Community College Director of Marketing Margaret Bradford said.
 
The benefits began November 1st and will last through January 2012.
 
WorkSource Oregon representatives say community colleges and WorkSource employees will assist potential students in finding a training program. Educational programs that qualify for the unemployment benefit extension are on a case by case basis.