Frequently Asked Questions
What is Work-Based Learning (WBL)?
WBL is an opportunity to be released from school early to go to work and start gaining some real world work experience – and get school credit! You can have a paid part-time position, an unpaid internship or both. We try to relate your work experience to your long-term career goals, but you can also get WBL credit if you just have a general part time job. This is a great opportunity to begin building your resume while still in high school. You may also work on-campus as an office aide or teacher intern.
What are the requirements to enroll in WBL?
In order to apply for the Work-Based Learning program, here are the requirements that you must meet:
- Must be at least 16 years old
- Maintain good attendance and discipline records
- Provide your own dependable transportation to/from job site/internship (Off Campus)
- Complete the WBL application by the deadline
- Participate in an in-person interview with the WBL coordinator
What are the course requirements?
There are two main components of the WBL class:
- GO TO WORK. For each release period, you must work 5 hours per week. For example, if you have WBL during 6th period, then you have to work 5 hours each week. Those hours do not literally have to be from 2:45-3:35 pm every day. You might only go to work one afternoon during the week and then on a Saturday. This gives you flexibility with other after-school activities, like athletic games and practices. Failure to comply may result in dismissal from the program.
- PROVIDE PROOF OF HOURS WORKED. Each month you will turn in a timesheet of the hours you have worked signed by your supervisor. Timesheets are due on the 10th of the following month to allow plenty of time for your supervisor to sign off on your hours.
- WORK EVALUATIONS. Your supervisor will complete 5-6 performance evaluations throughout the year that will serve as major grades.
- COMPLETE MONTHLY ASSIGNMENTS. Each month, you have to complete a few assignments that are related to a specific topic. All assignments are posted on Teams. Some months have more to do than others. Assignments are always due on the last day of the month, so it’s easy to remember. You turn assignments in online, which makes it very convenient! Failure to comply may result in dismissal from the program.
How many WBL periods can I take?
You can take up to two periods of WBL each semester.
When do I take WBL?
Courses must be taken in either the morning, afternoon or a combination, but not the middle of the day unless paired with dual enrollment. Ex. 1&6, 1-2, 5-6
How many hours do I need for full credit?
Students must work/intern an average of one hour per day for each release period to earn full credit for hours. Ex. 1 WBL Period=5 hours/week; 2 WBL Periods=10 hours/week. Hours can be earned during your release periods, evenings, or the weekends.
I have a paid job. Can I use it for WBL?
Yes, if it is related to coursework. The purpose of WBL is to help students find their future career. Students can have a paid job and an internship related to their career goals.
Can I use my paid job to count for WBL hours even if I have an internship?
Yes, if students do not get enough hours through the internship, they can supplement with paid hours.
What if I can’t work for a few days or weeks?
If a student is temporarily out of work due to extenuating circumstances, alternatives may be provided to earn hours.
What if I don’t have a job or related internship?
Coordinators will help secure a placement.
What schedule works best with WBL?
WBL works with all schedules; traditional, virtual, dual enrollment, athletic, etc.
Can I change jobs for WBL during the year?
Yes! You are allowed one job change with the coordinator's permission. You also must provide a two-week written notice of your resignation to your employer and have an approved placement lined up. Failure to comply with this policy may result in dismissal from the program.