School-to-Work

What is School-to-Work?

On May 4, 1994 President Bill Clinton signed the School-to-Work Opportunities Act Of 1994. This provides seed money to States and local partnerships of business, labor, government, education, and community organizations to develop school-to-work systems. While this system Varies from State to State, each provides every American student with:

Relevant Education, allowing students to explore different careers and see what skills are required in their working environment;
Skills, obtained from structured training and work-based learning experiences, including necessary skills of a particular Career as demonstrated in a working environment;
Valued Credentials, established industry-standard benchmarks and developing education and training standard which ensure that proper education is received for each career.

School-to-Work Systems are programs that prepare students, through study and experience, for jobs and careers. Beginning in the early grade, students explore opportunities and define goals for their future. It establishes the infrastructure for a system that is based on existing models and efforts such as career academies, youth apprenticeship, Tech-Prep, vocational education and cooperative education. The School-to-Work Initiative will make the workplace an active learning environment.

What are School-to-Work Programs?

School-Based Learning - classroom instruction based on high academic and business-defined occupational skill standards.
Work-Based Learning - career exploration, work experience, structured training and monitoring at job sites.
Connecting Activities - courses integrating classroom and on-the-job instruction, matching students with participating employers, training of mentors and the building of other bridges between school and Work.

What are the goals for School-to-Work Programs in West Virginia?

Achieving High Academic Standards - Core subjects are stressed. Courses are demanding and relevant to young people's lives and the world of work.
Staying in School - Young people are encouraged - and expected - to stay in school, meet graduation requirements and develop into responsible citizens.
Connecting Work and Learning - Lifelong learning is emphasized, with a focus on problem solving, critical thinking, decision making, team building and leadership skills.
Improving Career Opportunities - As young people gain hands-on training and experience, their future job prospects grow.

School-to-Work Programs focus on lifelong learning!


National Tech-Prep	National School-to-Work	STW State Dept. of Ed.