SUWANNEE- Gwinnett County Public School’s Work-Based Leaning Program recently held their kick-off meeting at the Instructional Support Center. Complete with catering by Mill Creek’s culinary class, a reception preceded the meeting.
The Work-Based Learning Program through Gwinnett County Public Schools is open to juniors and seniors who are at least 16 years of age. Students can be in the apprenticeship, internship, or cooperative education work-study program. It is all called Work-Based Learning and allows students go to work as part of their curriculum.
“This all came about with the School-to-Work Opportunities Act of 1994. That makes 14 graduating classes replete with college bound and work ready students. I am in my sixth year with this program,” says Carla Steele, Coordinator of Work-Based Learning. “It is such a rewarding experience to see these young students grow into productive adults.”
“We have not tallied the sign-in sheets yet, but based on the number of chairs that were full, we all agreed that we had approximately 325 students and parents at the kick-off meeting,” Steele continues.
The work-study program fosters students who learn, work and build a career together with help from their teachers and work-site mentors through a series of on-the-job assignments. These assignments begin with resume building and a dose of work ethic and conclude with a professional portfolio and occupational research project presentation.
“My work-study assignment helped me to know that I could handle being a nurse and that I was on the right career path for me. I became friends with many of my co-workers and I know that one day they will be wonderful references,” says Melinda Green, graduate of Collins Hill High School
Through the one-year program, students are able to direct their occupational focus. “I really enjoyed my work-study job. It helped me so much on deciding what I wanted to do for a career,” says Katie Padgett from Norcross
“I would recommend this program to any student who would like to get a head start in their career field,” Agrees Shaleena Sajwani from Parkview High School High School.
An overshadowed transcript enhancer, parents and students forget that it’s not all about academics and extra curricular. College admissions appreciate a grounded work ethic. “This program helped me obtain a scholarship to UGA.” Kelley Mundick, graduate of Duluth High School.
As a class option for senior year, there is a little something extra to gain for the work-based learning experience. “The skills I have learned on the job have taught me how to work in a team setting, how to meet deadlines and how to prioritize,” says Hunter Smiley from Parkview High School.
“The purpose of getting a good education is to be a productive member of society. I am already ahead of the game by being in the work-study program. I have learned what it means to have a good work ethic,” concludes Yahaira Roman of Phoenix High School.
