Work‑based learning: district reports 269 students, 180+ employer partners and $4.319M estimated economic impact

A district staff member leading career and technical programs presented a work‑based learning update, reporting program growth and economic measures. "There's over 269 workbased learning students right now in Jackson County," the presenter said, and added the program currently includes 852 block placements (class periods) and more than 180 employer partners in the community.

The presenter reported that for the 2025–26 year students earned wages (transcript shows a figure listed as "1,79,744" which is formatted ambiguously in the record) and that 87,531 hours were worked at an average reported wage of $12.34. The district estimated an economic impact of approximately $4.319 million. Staff noted state and private grants (including youth apprenticeship grants) help fund coordinators and support the program. A summer work‑based learning program was created to permit continuous placements for students whose employers require enrollment in a school program.

The presenter outlined goals to grow youth apprenticeship opportunities and increase placements in health care, logistics, manufacturing and skilled trades; the district is considering an honors‑level work‑based learning pathway to enable students in accelerated programs to participate without lowering GPA. Board members asked about outcomes for alumni and staff said they plan to invite program graduates back for future meetings.

The board did not take formal action on the report; staff requested continued support for outreach to more employer partners and for apprenticeship expansion.