Benchmark 5: Work-Based Learning

Purpose of Work-Based Learning

The P-TECH program must offer students a variety of relevant, high-skill work-based learning experiences at every grade level that respond to student interest and regional employer needs and contribute to students earning aligned industry certifications and credentials.

Design Elements

All P-TECHs must implement and meet the following requirements:

1. The P-TECH shall collaborate with the local workforce development board, local chamber of commerce, and local workforce industry representatives to define local workforce needs
2. The P-TECH shall have current, signed MOU with business/industry partners that are reviewed annually and clearly articulate the requirements outlined in this benchmark. The MOU must include in the agreement that the regional industry or business partner will give a student who receives work-based learning first priority in interviewing for any jobs for which the student is qualified that are available upon the student’s completion of the program
3. The P-TECH shall provide:
   1. Age level appropriate work-based learning for students in the P-TECH at every grade level that includes career awareness, career exploration, career preparation, and career experience
   2. Policies and protocols to make work-based learning a viable method for helping students meet academic standards
   3. Work based learning experiences that are well-planned and properly sequenced to provide a progression of learning experiences for students— each one building upon the last
   4. Work based learning may include, but is not limited to: facility visits, guest speakers, presentations, career information, career fairs, informational interviewing, job shadowing, internships, mentoring, and apprenticeships
4. The P-TECH shall ensure that students:
   1. Understand the connection between their work-based learning and academics
   2. Are provided opportunities to reflect on their work experiences
   3. Demonstrate their learning in writing, portfolio, presentation, digital or by other means
   4. Are provided opportunities for career-building skills such as: interview training, skill development, and resume workshops
5. The P-TECH shall allow for demonstration of enrichment and extracurricular opportunities, such as clubs, Career and Technical Student Organizations, competitions, and special initiatives

Activities

1. All products shall be published on the P-TECH website and be made available to the Texas Education Agency (TEA) upon request
2. All products shall be maintained in accordance with local retention policy

Products

1. Documentation of appropriate work-based learning experiences for students at all grade levels
2. Current dated regional high demand occupation list
3. Aggregate data describing student participation in work-based learning experiences as well as percentage of students earning industry certification and credentials by type
4. Samples of student artifacts such as writings, portfolios, presentations, or links to digital content