Many people assume middle school students are too young for career exploration, but by encouraging self-discovery and exploring real-world challenges, we can help these young people pursue their futures. Here are key considerations for work-based learning in middle school.
EdSystems is incorporating feedback from our youth apprentices to inform continuous improvement, both immediate and long-term, and ensure the students’ experiences are meaningful. Learn about our strategies, including tools that can be incorporated in any youth apprentice program.
Joliet Junior College’s work-based learning continuum in industrial maintenance is generating positive outcomes for both students and industry partners. Check out the best practices from their model.
Join the I-WIN community on December 17, 2024, to discuss systems and processes to support work-based learning holistically.
Valley View School District is taking work-based learning to the next level with three exciting new initiatives. On November 14, 2024, I-WIN showcased how the district is deepening their understanding of and support for stakeholders while increasing career development experiences.
At an informal roundtable on building and strengthening employer partnerships, the I-WIN community shared insights, resources, and best practices with fellow work-based learning practitioners.
I-WIN made an in-person site visit to CareerSpark, an annual interactive career exploration event for 8th grade students in the Peoria region.
On September 10, 2024, I-WIN shared new resources to support work-based learning practitioners in designing career exploration activities and embedding essential employability competencies.
On September 3, 2024, I-WIN provided an introduction to work-based learning fundamentals. Better understand the resources and communities available to support work-based learning practitioners.
To help communities enhance their work-based learning programs and ensure equitable access for schools with varying capacities, EdSystems is releasing the new “Scaling Work-Based Learning: Quality Criteria for Continuous Improvement and Equity” resource.
EdSystems, in collaboration with XQ Institute, conducted a six-week virtual micro-internship for high school students, focusing on real-world applications of mathematical concepts. Learn how this model incorporates the development of essential employability skills, including research abilities and effective communication, and can be applied to a variety of settings.
Designing and implementing high-quality work-based learning experiences is challenging, and communities often struggle to find support. The Illinois Work-Based Learning Innovation Network provides a model for peer collaboration by fostering a supportive environment for sharing resources and insights.
Discover key insights and recommendations on overcoming transportation barriers to work-based learning for Illinois students in the latest memo from the Success Network Policy Committee. This memo outlines student perspectives, district strategies, and systemic solutions to enhance access to work-based learning opportunities.
At EdSystems, we embody our commitment to racial equity and learner preparation through our youth apprenticeship program. As we reflect on our program’s first year, we’re refining mentorship strategies and addressing key questions for improvement, all while preparing for the next cohort.
On May 29, 2024, I-WIN discussed insights, best practices, and resources to address challenges to providing credit and teacher allocations for internships.
On May 20, 2024, two students presented insights on their paid micro-internship exploring math beyond the classroom setting. We also provided an overview of the general micro-internship model.
Alongside a statewide advisory, EdSystems has developed high-quality criteria for work-based learning in support of the College and Career Pathway Endorsements framework. The draft resource is open for public comment until May 31.
The May 9, 2024, showcase of the Scaling Transformative Advanced Manufacturing Pathways (STAMP) initiative featured participating collaboratives from regions across Illinois sharing how they are creating high-quality and equitable manufacturing pathways to help meet the demand for skilled manufacturing workers in Illinois.
How can we ensure high quality, continuous improvement, and equity in work-based learning opportunities? On April 29, 2024, our statewide advisory group shared insights from a new resource for stakeholders, now open for public comment.
Join us on April 16 for an engaging virtual workshop designed for those who design and implement work-based learning efforts and are eager to explore the world of AI tools!
Members of the Success Network Student Advisory Council and the Career and Technical Student Organization Student Board showcased research on dual credit and career and technical education courses statewide and offered recommendations for addressing barriers.
On April 4, 2024, work-based learning leaders gathered virtually for a discussion to share insights, best practices, and resources to address challenges related to student recruitment for job shadows.
Job shadows offer students an opportunity to engage in hands-on learning and direct industry exposure but pose logistical challenges. Learn how stakeholders are exploring solutions for issues such as teacher buy-in and student interest.
On March 19, 2024, Genesys Works and Junior Achievement of Central Illinois, along with their high school partners, shared how they collaborate to design and implement inclusive and equitable experiences for students.
Through the scaling of the GPEAK badging system, a growing number of communities are preparing students for productive lives and careers by developing innovative training programs aligned to Illinois’ essential employability competencies.
To scale manufacturing internships, employers need to better understand how to engage and mentor students under 18. Now, the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association and EdSystems are releasing new one-pagers to guide employers in effectively hosting high school interns while championing equity in placement and career progression.
On March 18, 2024, two Illinois communities shared how they are supporting high school students in career development experiences, including internships and apprenticeships, in manufacturing.
On February 21, 2024, North Kansas City Schools shared their approach to ensuring a comprehensive and effective professional learning experience for students at every grade level, including the establishment of leadership structures and councils, operational and communication/tracking systems, teacher supports, and innovative opportunities for business-industry collaboration.
On February 8, 2024, I-WIN hosted its second session in an ongoing discussion of leveraging AI in work-based learning. Margaret Janke from the Wilco Area Career Center shared how they are utilizing diverse AI tools in crafting materials, designing experiences, and enhancing student engagement within the context of work-based learning.
The Success Network Policy Committee convened a workgroup to explore work-based learning transportation challenges and is now publishing the first of two memos, which shed light on the significant transportation-related barriers students face in accessing work-based learning opportunities. This resource identifies and analyzes challenges impacting in-school youth at the school district, local, and system levels.
What are your biggest hopes for artificial intelligence (AI)? How about your biggest fears and worries? In December, the I-WIN community met to reflect on these questions and explore the potential of AI to be a thought partner in the design of work-based learning experiences.
On December 5, 2023, work-based learning leaders discussed how to use ChatGPT to prompt innovative solutions, including hands-on time to generate new resources.
At EdSystems, our commitment to advancing racial equity and preparing more learners for productive lives extends beyond providing guidance; it’s about embodying the principles we advocate. We recognize the importance of leading by example, which is why the launch of our Youth Apprenticeship program is more than just a new initiative—it’s a testament to our dedication to practicing what we preach.
The key outcome of work-based learning is social capital, and building this valuable asset starts with being able to guarantee this outcome for all students. As a determinant factor in social mobility and overcoming socioeconomic barriers, social capital prepares students for their futures.
On November 8, 2023, communities shared how they are working with their school’s master scheduling team on flexible options to incorporate professional learning experiences.
At I-WIN’s first in-person event, partners toured Panther Credit Union, an on-site banking and finance work-based learning opportunity at Oswego High School. Heather Penczak details how the career development experience works and its impact on students.
The number of school districts implementing College & Career Pathway Endorsements is increasing exponentially. To support statewide scaling, the Illinois State Board of Education has drafted a set of administrative rules that will soon be open for public comment. In this post, we examine the growth of the endorsement system and share our review of the pending rules, which point to a significant level of momentum in Illinois regarding college and career pathways.
Manufacturing has long been a male-dominated field, but the future of this industry depends on inclusivity and fresh perspectives. We gathered insights from manufacturing experts on supporting young women in manufacturing pathways. This collaborative effort has resulted in a resource that offers practical guidance for students at any stage of their career journey.
On September 19, 2023, the Iowa Department of Education shared strategies for integrating work-based learning within coursework and tracking the activities.
The first-of-its-kind Illinois Career Pathways Dictionary now includes expanded and updated definitions as well as resources and implementation guidance on a new website, pathwaysdictionary.org.
From work-based learning to pathway design to creating currency for students, EdSystems is learning valuable lessons through the Scaling Transformative Advanced Manufacturing Pathways (STAMP) initiative, a partnership with the IMA Education Foundation.
On May 23, 2023, we shared best practices, community models, and resources for supporting young women to pursue experiences in manufacturing. This session also shared insights and feedback gathered from female high school and college students on what they want to see in these efforts.
On May 9, 2023, leaders from Ridgewood High School, Triton College, Waubonsee Community College, and Elgin Community College shared how they are hosting regional team-based challenges in education, manufacturing, and health sciences.
On April 27, 2023, Collinsville Area Vocational Center shared how it facilitates Career Development Experiences through school-based enterprise models in building trades, auto mechanics, food service, education, and health sciences.
EdSystems is proud to announce it has received a three-year, $165,000 grant to strengthen work-based learning and launch an education research collaborative in the Belvidere and Rockford region. The grant was awarded by the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois’ Community Grants Program.
An overview of resources in the work-based learning continuum for manufacturing pathway students.
As organizations return to hosting in-person events, how do we acknowledge and design around the challenges communities have faced in recent years while inspiring more people of all ages to pursue high-quality occupations in in-demand fields? EdSystems worked with three Illinois communities to address that question.
An overview of resources in the work-based learning continuum for health sciences pathway students.
On December 14, 2022, Valley Education for Employment System shared how it is engaging employers in their region to be prepared to host and support young people in work-based learning opportunities, including internships.
On November 17, 2022, we showcased three Illinois communities that piloted a multigenerational Health Sciences Career Exploration event: Greater Joliet Area YMCA, Rush Education and Career Hub, and Barnes-Jewish Hospital.
On November 2, 2022, Liz Rush of Clairemont High School in San Diego, California, shared the school’s continuum of work-based learning, including a mentor program and internship opportunities available to students.
An overview of resources in the work-based learning continuum for education pathway students.
An archive of work-based learning blog posts from the Illinois Work-Based Learning Innovation Network.
There are many different components of successful Career Development Experiences, but with the battling priorities that educators face daily, there is one that you cannot miss: mentorship.
The Facilitation Guide supports communities through the process of creating and maintaining successful Career Development Experiences.
On July 18, 2022, we heard from District 214 about its work-based learning continuum for the business sector.
On June 27, 2022, leaders from California-based Climate Action Pathways for Schools shared their model for inspiring and implementing climate education programs to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while saving money for school districts.
To support the development of high-quality Career Exploration and Career Development Experiences in middle and high schools, ISBE tapped EdSystems to support a one-year pilot program. Check out the pilot’s models, resources, best practices, lessons learned, and recommendations for policy and supports to help better inform the field.
As part of EdSystems’ Health Sciences Career Exploration and Career Development Experience Pilot, Rush Education and Career Hub and Chicago Public Schools piloted a new Career Exploration event designed with inclusion in mind.
The Health Sciences Career Exploration and Career Development Experience Pilot project is designed to support healthcare workforce development in the State of Illinois.
STAMP serves secondary districts in implementing manufacturing pathways that align to the College and Career Pathway Endorsement, with a particular focus on historically marginalized students.
Hear experiences and learnings from communities participating in ISBE’s Career Exploration and Career Development Experience Pilot.
Scaling Education Pathways in Illinois (SEPI) introduces a third cohort of communities, a new mentor model, and expanded research into student perspectives and experiences in education pathways.
On March 22, 2022, Science Olympiad shared how they work with industry and school partners to support and design opportunities in IT.
On February 28–March 3, 2022, the Illinois Education and Career Success Network delivered high-quality content to a record-setting attendance of 767 educators, administrators, policymakers, students, and leaders.
On February 16, 2022, we shared experiences along the work-based learning continuum in the manufacturing sector, with guest presenters from Ridgewood High School and the Illinois Manufacturer’s Association.
On November 16, 2021, we focused on experiences along the work-based learning continuum in the education sector with guests from the Southern Illinois Future Teachers Coalition and Educators Rising.
In collaboration with the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Education Systems Center has released a new Career Development Experience Toolkit Companion Piece to address the needs of stakeholders outside of a traditional high school setting.
On September 20, 2021, we shared experiences along the work-based learning continuum in the health sciences sector, with guests from Whiteside Area Career Center, District 211, and Danville Area Community College.
An archive of past convenings of the Illinois Work-Based Learning Innovation Network.
We applaud the US Department of Education for acknowledging the pandemic’s impacts on schools and build from innovative practices. We join USEd in seeking to re-envision how we educate young people and dismantle barriers that stand in the way of success for students of color for far too long.
In summer 2021, we hosted a three-part workshop series for designing career exploration, team-based challenges, and career development experiences.
EdSystems applauds the adoption of the Illinois Board of Higher Education’s new 10-year strategic plan, A Thriving Illinois: Higher Education Paths to Equity, Sustainability, and Growth.
The Career Development Experience Toolkit Companion Piece is designed for stakeholders outside of a traditional high school setting including workforce development organizations, community-based organizations, and alternative high schools.
On May 25, 2021, the Mayor’s Employer Advisory Council in Evanston and North Chicago Community High School shared their processes to shift typically in-person work-based learning events to fully virtual opportunities.
On April 20, 2021, Alignment Rockford and Chicago Public Schools shared how they engage with partners who host work-based learning experiences including recruitment, ongoing support, and celebration of their partnerships.
On March 9, 2021, we shared lessons and insights from the Great Lakes College and Career Pathways Partnership and reviewed emerging ISBE expectations for reporting related to the College and Career Readiness Indicator, the College and Career Pathways Endorsement, and Perkins.
In response to the U.S. Department of Education’s RFI on Expanding Work-Based Learning Opportunities for Youth, the EdSystems team offered public comments based on the PWR Act and community interests, examples, and concerns gathered from our I-WIN members.
On January 21, 2021, we reviewed the Brookings report on how work-based learning can advance equity and opportunity, and heard from Here to Here on the value and impact of work-based learning to address educational equity and opportunity gaps.
On December 1, 2020, we shared an overview of career development experiences and heard from BJC Healthcare and Woodruff Career & Technical Center.
I-WIN helps educators, work-based learning coordinators, and employers leverage innovative models for scaling high-quality work-based learning opportunities in school districts and community colleges across the state.
On October 28, 2020, we launched I-WIN with an overview of work-based learning plus guest speakers from Career Connect Washington, GCAMP, and Science Olympiad shared experiences and resources.
Explore resources to support innovative and equitable work-based learning opportunities, including a statewide resource bank of team-based challenges.
The Greater Peoria Essential Abilities and Knowledge (GPEAK) is a regional essential skills program to provide work-based learning opportunities.
The new Illinois Work-Based Learning Innovation Network (I-WIN) will support work-based learning educators in school districts and community colleges across Illinois.
As communities move to remote learning, we can also continue developing valuable employability skills through virtual work-based learning.
The Career Development Experience Toolkit, aligned to the PWR Act, supports scaling high-quality career pathways and work-based learning.
Released in 2019, the Career Development Experience Toolkit adheres to the framework of the PWR Act for College and Career Pathway Endorsements. These materials serve any organization that seeks to provide rigorous work-based learning opportunities to youth.
To help transform outcomes for youth and adults across Illinois, the Illinois Career Pathways Dictionary defines key terms for career pathway programs and system elements, while also offering resources and implementation guidance to support statewide alignment.
On May 11, 2017, the Illinois Science and Technology Institute (ISTI) and Education Systems Center at NIU hosted an employer summit to bring employers together to talk about building effective learning partnerships between employers and schools through problem-based learning, titled Employer Summit: Building Effective Learning Partnerships.
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