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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take Co-Op all year?  
Yes. Co-Op can be for one semester or an entire year.
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Can I have Co-Op for more than one period? 
Absolutely! You may take Co-Op for one or  two periods per semester. It is recommended that Juniors only take one period per semester.
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How many hours do I need to work for Co-Op?

  • You need to work 140 hours per semester per credit class of Co-Op.
  • If you have a Co-Op for one period, you will need 140 hours for the semester (approximately 10-15 hours a week).
  • If you have Co-Op for two periods, you will need 280 hours for the semester (approximately 20-30 hours a week).

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When do I work?
You may work immediately upon being released from school or anytime thereafter, as long as you achieve the required hours per semester.

If I complete my hours before the end of the semester, do I still need to work?
Yes, this is a semester course and a requirement.

Can I do an internship for Co-Op?
Yes, but it must be with a licensed business, with a Child Labor Certificate for the State of Alabama, and within your career pathway.

How do I get a job?
Employment opportunities are shared, but it is up to the student to secure them.

Can I use my current job for Co-Op?
Yes

What could cause me to be removed from Co-Op?
A student will be removed from Co-Op immediately if any of the following occur at work: stealing, drugs/alcohol, or causing a fight/disturbance. If a student is removed from Co-Op no credit is awarded and the student receives a failing grade.

What should I do if I have concerns about my job or employer?
Contact your Co-Op Coordinator immediately! 

  • Are there restrictions regarding hours to work and places to work?
    Yes. The Alabama Child Labor Laws  contains mandated criteria for the well-being of minors. Some places of employment are not suitable for minors due to safety and health concerns. Regarding hours, minors 16-18 who are enrolled in a public or private school, may not work after 10PM or before 5AM on a night preceding a school day. During months/periods when public schools are not in session, minors 16-18 do not have an hour restriction during this time. Additionally, no breaks are required for employees 16 or older. Minors of parents who own their own business are not exempt from the Alabama Child Labor Laws.

    What is the role of the Co-Op Coordinator?

    • Assists in facilitating Cooperative Education (Co-Op) experience.
    • Works with the Cooperative Education supervisor in developing a training plan for the student.
    • Communicates with or visits the Co-Op site at least once per month to confer with the employer and the student; verify that the student’s duties correlate with job description; observe working conditions; help develop progressive skill-building activities; observe and evaluate student progress; and resolve questions, issues or concerns.
    • Counsels the student about the Co-Op experience, behavior, attitude, academics, etc.
    • Reinforces Co-Op experience with related classroom instruction as deemed necessary and appropriate.
    • Terminates employment/participation when it serves the best interest of the students as determined in collaboration with the employer.
    • Determines the student’s final grade for the Co-Op experience.