Law firm recognized for work with Austin, Lanier high schools

AUSTIN AMERICAN STATESMAN
BYLINE: Kim Tyson   
DATE: June 4, 1997

Blazier, Rutland & Lerner, an Austin law firm, has become something of a mini-job training company for students at Austin and Lanier high schools.

Although the firm gets no financial rewards for its endeavors, Tuesday it got an award from the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce for the many hours it has devoted.

John Blazier, the firm's senior partner, was instrumental in setting up two foundations at Austin and Lanier high schools to help students develop career pathways. This year the law firm and foundation backed a drive to equip Austin High with 60 computers -- nearly all from small-business donors.

Each fall it has organized an eight-week SAT preparation course, taught by employees and University of Texas faculty, to give extra help to minority students who can't afford to take commercially offered review programs.

For the past three springs, the firm has organized small-business executives to lead a two-week ``Charm School'' to give students tips on resume writing and job interviewing.

This summer, 35 students will participate in summer internships at law firms, the Austin Police Department, the Travis County Probation Department and other employers. The program is part of the Lanier Career Academy established by the law firm.

``We've got to make a difference for these kids,'' said Blazier, who puts in at least three hours a day on the effort. ``We're failing our children. We've got to address the needs of those not going on to college and recognize that college isn't for everybody. Employers have got to become involved.''