Rockport School Committee hears expanded capstone plan with internships, job-shadow days

Eric Bent, a high-school teacher serving as the program coordinator, presented a revamped capstone program that combines senior internships, job-shadow days and expanded career education across grades 9–12. He said the senior internships are intended to run 30 hours a week for six weeks and would replace classes during that time for participating seniors, with exceptions for AP exams and dual-enrollment commitments.

"It's designed to run for 30 hours a week for 6 weeks," Bent said, explaining internships are scheduled to begin April 7. He described eligibility as open to all seniors in good academic standing, and outlined alternatives for students enrolled in heavy AP loads, including shorter internships, volunteer projects or student-led capstone work.

Bent acknowledged equity and logistical challenges, including transportation and access to meals for students who depend on school-provided breakfast or lunch. He said the district is preparing to use Rockport minibuses where needed and will pursue CORI checks and formal documentation for site supervisors to ensure student safety. The coordinator reported several internships already lined up and widespread student interest: in a survey of the class of 2025, about 92% said they were strongly interested in participating.

Committee members asked how the program would be staffed and how teachers would be redeployed during the senior internship blocks; administrators said redeployment plans are "loose" but feasible, and that detailed staffing decisions will depend on final enrollment in the internships. Members encouraged Eric Bent to pursue community partnerships, tapping the Chamber of Commerce and local businesses for authentic placements and mock-interview resources.