The last decade has presented a massive growth within the realm of 'work-based learning' in high schools. Within the category of Youth Apprenticeships alone, the United States has seen a 64% increase from 2013-2023. This shift, in general, reflects a broader recognition of the need to better prepare students for real-world challenges, career readiness, and the evolving demands of the workforce. Work-based learning offers students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience, explore career pathways, and develop practical skills while still in school. As this model continues to gain traction, it is reshaping the educational landscape and helping bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional success.
Overall, work-based learning encompasses a variety of programs and experiences that connect academic learning with practical application in the workplace. Within the School District of Random Lake, this starts as early as middle school with Academic and Career Planning meetings. As students progress into high school, job shadows and guest speakers within specific areas of interest help to ignite interests within specific career paths. SCoPE (Student Counselor Parent Engagement) Meetings every year with students and families 9th-12th grade allow the district to remain intentional with guidance, and the introduction of both Youth Apprenticeships and Work Experience opportunities come 11th and 12th grade. These opportunities allow students to work alongside professionals, understand industry expectations, and develop both technical and soft skills.
One of the most significant advantages of these experiences is that it makes learning more relevant. Students often struggle to see the connection between school subjects and their future goals. By participating in work-based learning, they gain insight into how their education applies to real-world settings, which can increase motivation and engagement in school.
These experiences also help students explore different career options before committing to college or a specific career pathway. This exploration can lead to more informed decisions about their future, reducing the likelihood of wasted time and resources on college majors or career choices that may not fit their aspirations. In addition, students develop crucial skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management—all of which are valued in today’s job market.
In addition to the countless guest speakers within classes, job shadows provided by many businesses the past few years, the following businesses have graciously partnered with the School district of Random Lake for Youth Apprenticeship opportunities: Torque Monsters Engine Core, Krier Beverage, Standard Machine, Oldenburg Metal, Rockland Dairy, AGI Fabricators, Lochen Equipment, Fromm Family Foods, Random Lake Dentistry, Eisentraut Ag Services, Dreams Logistics, Cedar Valley Cheese, Heaven's Gait Ranch, Plaza Hotel, Miron, Kiefer Industries, Arch Electric, Aurora Medical Center Grafton, Belgium Gardens, Cedar Grove Gardens, TnT Auto Body, Rocky Knoll, & Van Horn Real Estate. Within the YA experience, students work as employees for 450+ hours, and earn an industry recognized credential following the program.
The increase in work-based learning opportunities in high schools marks a significant and positive trend in education. By combining classroom instruction with real-world experience, the plethora of activities that fall under 'work-based learning' helps students prepare for their futures in an intentional and practical way. This type of learning can ensure that the next generation enters the workforce confident, skilled, and ready to succeed.