I am the Work Based Learning Coordinator at Calhoun High School. Work Based Learning is a program for Seniors that allows them to explore their career pathway outside the four walls of the classroom. Seniors are eligible for the program if they have maintained at least an 80 overall average in high school, have taken at least one unit in their career pathway during the previous three years, have excellent attendance and discipline records, and have at least three positive references from other teachers or employers. Students accepted into the program will continue to take their required classes at CHS, but may leave campus during the school day to work as their schedule permits. The students receive at least two evaluations from their employers each semester. They also have assignments related to the work experience during each semester. Students receive a grade for this class as they would for any other class at school.
This is a valuable opportunity for students because it allows them to explore their career pathway prior to graduating from high school. After exploring their chosen career in high school, they may decide they do not want to continue the career which will save them a lot of time and parents a lot of money post graduation. In the past, students have explored the careers of nursing, medical careers such as a physician, accountant, law enforcement, landscaping, computer technology, teaching and many others.