2-Work-Based Learning

The following pages represent a summary of our schools responses for the 2022-23 addedum, submitted as a part of our 2023-24 plan.  To see our full response, please view our 2023-24 plan.  

2. How has the business advisory council and its members supported students in work-based learning (? (Career exploration activities such as job shadowing, mock interviews and mentoring should not be included in data.)

a. How many students have been placed in work-based learning experiences?

The Business Advisory Council (BAC) has actively fostered work-based learning experiences for students across various schools. Amherst, through its BAC affiliation, arranged externships at renowned medical facilities such as the Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals, and they're looking into partnerships with Mercy Hospital. In total, they've engaged about 58 students so far in these experiences. Avon Lake primarily focuses on work-based learning via special education services and Lorain County JVS. Clearview's involvement with the BAC has enabled them to place between 5-10 students. Firelands launched a pre-apprenticeship program, though the exact number of student participants remains unconfirmed. Keystone and Oberlin reported placements of 5 and 8 students, respectively. Lorain City High School offers a unique approach, with roughly 212 of their 532 CTE students (40%) undergoing work-based learning experiences within on-site labs equipped with industry-standard gear. This setup enables students to undertake real-world projects. Lorain County JVS stands out with its comprehensive approach, ensuring every student partakes in work-based learning. Midview, Sheffield, and North Ridgeville have made significant strides as well, with 38, 24, and an unspecified number of students engaged in these programs respectively. Sheffield's unique retail credential has benefited students seeking employment in sectors such as retail and dog grooming.

  b. What are some examples of high-quality work-based learning supported by your business advisory council?

There are many high-quality work-based learning experiences taking place throughout our county!  Amherst and Keystone, for instance, collaborated with the BAC to provide students with opportunities at the Cleveland Clinic, enabling them to explore diverse healthcare-related roles. Avon Lake emphasized consistent engagement with sector partners, offering students a hands-on experience. Clearview focuses on holistic skill development, encompassing areas from customer service to equipment setup. At Midview, the highlight has been specialized programs and pathways like MEMS and Biomedical. North Ridgeville is in the phase of building connections with local industries, while Oberlin students have found placements in renowned institutions. Sheffield underscored the vast range of roles available to students, particularly at large establishments like the Cleveland Clinic, which proved to be an insightful experience for all involved.

c. How many of your business partners have accepted students into work-based learning experiences?

Several schools reported on the number of business partners that have welcomed students into work-based learning experiences. Amherst, Clearview, and Keystone have had partnerships with four, three, and three businesses respectively. Midview and Oberlin each have had two businesses participating. Lorain County JVS stands out with a significant 200+ businesses engaged in the past school year. Sheffield mentioned specific local businesses, like a fast food chain and a car wash, that have offered opportunities in line with their BAC's objectives. North Ridgeville, however, hasn't had any businesses involved in this initiative, and Lorain City cited transportation barriers preventing off-site learning experiences. 

d. How has work-based learning benefited students and employers?

Work-based learning offers many benefits to both students and employers. Schools like Amherst emphasize that it allows students to delve deeper into their chosen fields, expanding their knowledge and experiences beyond traditional curricula. Avon Lake and Sheffield point out that these real-world opportunities help students transition seamlessly into the workforce, while also aiding in career identification and exploration, as highlighted by Keystone and Lorain County JVS. Clearview and Sheffield mention added advantages such as tuition reimbursement, flexible class scheduling, and the invaluable support of school teachers acting as liaisons. On the employer side, Avon Lake and Keystone note that work-based learning serves as a recruitment channel, introducing businesses to young talent early on. Lorain County JVS further elaborates on the benefits for employers, including access to a skilled workforce, increased productivity, and cost savings.