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Work-Based Learning / Co-Op

Cooperative Education (Co-Op) is a major component of career and technical education. Students are afforded an opportunity to earn high school credit while participating in a work-based learning experience. A Cooperative Education experience may be an apprenticeship (paid) or internship (unpaid) position in a career pathway. 

Requirements

  • At least 16 years of age
  • Classified as a junior or senior
  • On track for graduation
  • Possess the knowledge, skills, behavioral qualities, and abilities required to succeed in employment
  • Physically and mentally capable of performing the essential functions of the desired Cooperative Education learning experience
  • Successfully completed one CTE course or Career Preparedness
  • Acceptable attendance, grades and discipline record
  • Complete requisite documentation and process
  • Reliable transportation
  • Complete 140 work-based learning hours per credit/per semester

Benefits

  • Earn and learn
  • Receive school-based and work-based training while attending high school and building your resume
  • Earn high school credit and a paycheck
  • Earn income and gain financial experience
  • Develop, demonstrate, and refine work habits
  • Demonstrate responsibility, maturity, job competency, and decision-making skills
  • Gain an understanding of the employment process and organizational structure of business and industry
  • Improve the transition from school to work and post-secondary opportunities
  • Learn to effectively communicate, network and build relationships
  • Early release from school to work
  • Develop a sound foundation for work ethic
  • Potential to raise GPA (provided all the requirements/submissions are met)

Process

  • Choose Co-Op on your school registration form.
  • Seniors may choose up to two periods a semester.
  • It is recommended that Juniors only choose one period a semester.
  • Students may choose one semester or an entire year of Co-Op.
  • Complete online application 
  • Attend Intake/Onboarding (scheduled by Coordinator)
  • ​Complete necessary requirements (Required Paperwork)
  • Listing of students eligible to 2024-2025 Co-Op provided to counselors for registration
  • All students must be actively employed by the first day of the semester