Iowa schools are invited to register for an upcoming winter webinar series that will focus on key work-based learning support strategies. With these strategies, school districts can be better equipped to develop and enhance their work-based learning programs.
Offered by the Iowa Department of Education, this five-part webinar series will help connect classroom instruction and in-school supports with quality workplace experiences. Work-based learning coordinators, content-area teachers and other staff who are interested in integrating work-based learning into their courses are highly encouraged to attend.
The webinar series starts this month and features the following strategy topics:
- Building Sustainable Work-Based Learning Programs – Participants will learn how to develop and expand student opportunities for work-based learning. The webinar is scheduled for Dec. 14 from 12:30-1 p.m.
- Implementing Work-Based Learning in the Individualized Career and Academic Plan (ICAP) – Information on how to embed work-based learning into the ICAP process and prepare students for their futures will be shared. The webinar is scheduled for Dec. 21 from 1-1:30 p.m.
- Transforming Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) Activities into Work-Based Learning Experiences – Schools can learn about this innovative approach in partnering CTSO activities with opportunities for work-based learning. The webinar is scheduled for Jan. 18 from 3:30-4 p.m.
- Incorporating Best Practices for Work-Based Learning in Career and Technical Education (CTE) and Career Academies – Participants will discover best practices for work-based learning focused on CTE and career academies. The webinar is scheduled for Feb. 7 from 10-10:30 a.m.
- Supporting Historically Underserved Students in Work-Based Learning – Schools can find new ways to support all students in their career exploration and work-based learning experiences. The webinar is scheduled for Feb. 15 from 2-2:30 p.m.
High-quality work-based learning experiences can provide students with opportunities to explore their postsecondary options. Through work-based learning, students have a clearer pathway to further education, careers and professional skills and connections.
Additional information on work-based learning experiences can be found on the Department’s webpage. Other questions on the upcoming webinar series or work-based learning support strategies in schools can be directed to Kristy Volesky, work-based learning consultant, at kristy.volesky@iowa.gov.