Work Based Learning Experience

Work based Learning Coordinator

Ms. Renee Cullari

973-680-8600 x4119

rcullari@bloomfield.k12.nj.us

https://sites.google.com/bloomfield.k12.nj.us/mrsreer-sle/home

What is the BHS Work Based Learning Experience?

The Bloomfield High School WBLE Internship Program provides eligible students the opportunity to utilize their last years of high school to gain purposeful experiences that will help them get on track to their futures. Specifically, the program allows students to intern with local businesses, participating Bloomfield schools, and in approved community programs.

Bloomfield High School's WBLE (Work Based Learning Experience) Career Internship Program is a part of the overall career orientation education plan as part of the New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards for 21st Century Life and Career. Career Internships are structured, supervised activities that may take place in a variety of settings within the community; and will assist them to accomplish the following:

Clarify career goals
Explore career possibilities
Develop employable skills
Make the transition between school and employment or further education and training

The goal of this program is to develop career awareness and planning skills, employability skills, and foundational knowledge necessary for success in the workplace.

Resources:

PACER's National Parent Center on Transition and Employment has a great feature called Paving the Way: Parent Tips for Supporting Success in High School and Beyond. It is an accessible listing of helpful resources and tips on a few topics including communication, study habits, support, and preparation for the future. Check it out!

My Teenager Has a Disability - Will He/She Find Employment After High School or College?

The most recent issue of EP Magazine focuses on employment and transition topics that individuals with I/DD and their families may benefit from reading. In this article, "My teenager has a disability - will he/she find employment after high school or college?" the authors say: "One of the most important parts of transition planning is ensuring that a youth with disabilities should learn to advocate for themselves and the supports they need. Youth need to understand their rights. As they transition into employment or post-secondary education, they will need to be able to communicate their needs and may need to help identify where they can receive those supports." (To continue reading- click on the bold EP Magazine link at the beginning of this paragraph.)

This quote speaks to the importance of self-advocacy. If you know someone interested in learning more about how to speak up for him or herself, check out The Arc of New Jersey's Self-Advocacy Project.

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