What is Work-Based Learning?
Work-Based Learning (WBL) connects classroom instruction with real-world job experiences to help students explore careers, develop skills, and prepare for life after graduation. Through programs like Youth Apprenticeship and internships, students gain hands-on experience in professional settings while earning high school credit. The goal of WBL is to support career readiness by helping students build employability skills, understand workplace expectations, and make informed decisions about their future education and career pathways. Work-based learning allows students to have release time from school to meet work hour requirements.
How can I be eligible for the Work-Based Learning program?
Have an attendance rate of 90% or higher
Be on track for graduation
Have completed all Xello Lessons to date and have an ACP
Have a completed resume
Have completed a job shadow or other Career-Based learning experience
Have transportation to/from work
Be eligible for employment
Work-Based Learning Options**
Youth Apprenticeship (YA)
Available to students in grades 11 - 12
Requires a year-long commitment to complete a minimum of 450 hours of paid work
Currently employed -- Working a minimum of 15 hours per week
Offered by employers willing to provide a mentor to student workers
Successful completion earns a certification from the State of WI
Must be enrolled in related coursework at Turner or through SCN/ECCP
Eligible for up to 2 periods of release time per day
Earn up to 1.0 credits per semester
Internship
Available to students in grade 12
Requires a semester-long commitment to complete a minimum of 90 hours of work
May be done 1st semester, 2nd semester, or both
Currently employed -- Working a minimum of 10 hours per week
Eligible for up to 1 period of release time per day
Earn up to 0.5 credits per semester
**The decision on which option a student is enrolled in is based on the student’s employment and future career plans in conjunction with discussion with the Work-Based Learning coordinator.**
How do I become part of the Work-Based Learning program?
Complete the Work-Based Learning application form
Meet with Work-Based Learning Coordinator
Complete all required paperwork once accepted into the program, with a job acquired
Complete weekly Google form check-ins to demonstrate job progress
Continue to meet all requirements of the WBL program throughout the school year
Meet biannually with the WBL School Coordinator in person
What are the requirements for the Work-Based Learning program?
Grade & Credits
Entering 12th grade (11th-grade students may qualify if sufficient career preparation has been completed)
Remain on track for graduation at all times
Passing all current classes with a 1.0 or better
Attendance & Behavior
Maintain 90% or better attendance to continue to be eligible for release time for WBL
Positive behavior in the school, the classroom, and at the employer
Academic & Course Requirements
Currently enrolled in relevant courses to the career pathway for the employment
Met any recommended prerequisites for internship or apprenticeship programs
Communication & Skills
Demonstrates reliability, teamwork, and professionalism
Completes all requirement paperwork in a timely manner
Assists WBL Coordinator in communicating with employer/supervisor
Questions: Reach out to Brainne Allbee, Work-Based Learning Coordinator (allbeeb@turnerschools.org)