CPS Work-Based Learning

Chicago Police and Firefighter Training Academy (CPFTA)

Two year training program for students interested in careers in public safety, law enforcement, criminal justice, and fire science. Interested students who are rising juniors can apply online each year beginning in February.

Prerequisites: Junior standing and approval from the student’s counselor   

Chicago BUILDS

Two year off campus program where students can focus on areas of Carpentry, Electricity, Heating, and Cooling (HVAC), Welding and General Construction. Students will receive high school credits for successful completion of the course curriculum. Interested students can apply here.

Prerequisites: Junior standing and approval from the student’s counselor

Genesys Works and Urban Alliance

Two programs that allow students the ability to work and attend school at the same time. These are year-long programs that require students to attend a multi-week pre-work session and then will assign a part-time internship experience to students as a part of their school schedule. Students interested can apply at Genesys Works or at Urban Alliance.

Prerequisites: Junior standing and approval from the student’s counselor

RE:ALIZE

An early college program affiliated with Columbia College Chicago that provides a two year program related to Visual and Theater Arts. Students are required to commit to two full years of the program and need to have a 2.5 GPA and 90% attendance rate to be considered. Student travel to Wells Community Academy High School and Columbia College Chicago is required and a Ventra card will be provided. Students interested in RE:ALIZE can apply at RE:ALIZE.

Prerequisites: Junior standing and approval from the student’s counselor