Board hears plan for pilot work-based learning program to award credit for internships and paid work
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Summary
District presenters proposed a work-based learning program that would allow seniors to earn high-school credit for supervised internships or paid jobs (150 hours = 0.5 credit; 600 hours = 2 credits), with a certified coordinator to run weekly classes and conduct employer/site compliance.
District administrators presented a proposal on Dec. 10 to launch a work-based learning program that connects classroom instruction with internships and supervised on-the-job experience. The program aims to expand career awareness and provide seniors with credit for workplace experience.
A district presenter summarized the statewide concept: "it enables students to see firsthand how the things that they're learning in our classrooms...are utilized throughout our world." The district highlighted that the program can provide credit: 150 hours equals a half-credit, 600 hours can equal two credits, and New York State allows up to three credits total through work-based learning across a high-school career.
Miss Anderson, identified as the district's work-based learning coordinator, outlined her responsibilities: "I will be supervising the program as a whole...I will also be serving as the link between the students, the school, and the employers...managing all the paperwork...conducting on-site visits..." She said she will run a weekly in-school class for enrolled students and maintain employer communication.
Presenters described a student survey showing robust interest among upperclassmen: 56% of sampled 10th/11th graders were "very interested" and 31% "somewhat interested." Administrators recommended starting with a pilot cohort (20-30 students) and flexible scheduling (early dismissal, lunch meetings, after-school or weekend placements) to accommodate varied student schedules.
Board members raised logistical questions about scheduling, transportation and student commitment. Presenters said students must sign agreements, parents are responsible for transportation, and employers must carry workers' compensation insurance and meet site-safety checks.
What happens next: the district will host an advisory-board breakfast with local employers and will refine MOAs and the student training plan before recruiting an initial pilot group.