Work-Based Learning

Career Strategies consists of an in-depth study of career clusters and pathways through a variety of investigative activities. Students analyze career assessment results, compare various educational options, and develop or revise a plan related to their academic and career-related goals. Contextual instruction and student participation in co-curricular career and technical student organization (CTSO) activities will develop leadership, interpersonal, and career skills. High-quality work-based learning (HQWBL) will provide experiential learning opportunities related to students' career goals and/or interests, integrated with instruction, and performed in partnership with local businesses and organizations.

The appropriate work based learning experience training guide will be applied.

Cooperative education is a WBL experience that connects CTE classroom instruction with paid workplace experience directly related to the student’s interests, abilities, and goals. Cooperative education combines a rigorous and relevant curriculum with an occupational specialty. Students participating in cooperative education are guided by a formal, written training plan that defines specific academic and workplace skills to be mastered.

Internship is a WBL experience that places the student in a real workplace environment to develop and practice career-related knowledge and skills for a specific career field related to the student’s career interests, abilities, and goals. Internships may be paid or unpaid for a minimum of 140 hours to earn 0.5 credits. It is connected to classroom learning and accompanied by structured reflection activities. Students participating in internships are guided by a formal, written training plan that defines specific academic and workplace skills to be mastered.

Mentorship is a WBL experience that consists of a long-term relationship focused on supporting the growth and development of students as they learn about a particular industry and workplace. The student is paired with a community professional who has a recognized record of achievement and first-hand experience in the occupational field or career cluster of the student's choice. The mentor becomes a source of guidance, motivation, wisdom, teaching, role modeling, and support. The knowledge, advice, and resources shared depend on the format and goals of the mentoring relationship. Mentor support can provide a wide range of personal and professional benefits, which ultimately lead to improved performance in the workplace. Mentorship requires student preparation, including career exploration, prior to the experience. 

Mentors are encouraged to provide the student with as much hands-on experience as possible and to provide a broad view of the business/industry as well as routine tasks and challenging opportunities. A mentorship may be completed on a one-on-one, small group, or virtual basis.

Prerequisite: Completed Application

Senior Instructional Leadership Corp is a leadership opportunity for senior students and faculty to share in the joys and the struggles of the learning process. Students will take in the role of assisting a teacher in the classroom while mentoring their fellow students. Students will participate in a monthly seminar which includes seminar assignments, journal entries and the opportunity to process SILC experiences.