Westwood High School, located in the heart of Blythewood, South Carolina, is part of the Richland School District 2. The district’s commitment to excellence is evident in its support for innovative programs like WBL.
According to the Richland 2 website, “The WBL program aims to prepare students for future careers by providing them with practical work experience in their field of interest.”
This mission aligns perfectly with the district’s vision of fostering a culture of collaboration and lifelong learning. The WBL program is tailored to meet the diverse needs and interests of its students.
The WBL coordinator, Tara Smith, explained how the WBL program assists students in securing internships and potential job shadowing experiences.
“Something that I do here at Westwood is take responsibility for CCR, college and career readiness. It is most likely that students will meet only 1 out of the 8 or 9 metrics. The internships offered to the students, The school’s website highlights that
“Students can engage in various work-based learning experiences, including internships, apprenticeships, job shadowing, and cooperative education. These opportunities allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, enhancing their understanding and skills.”
One of the standout features of the WBL program at Westwood is its strong partnerships with local businesses and organizations. These collaborations are crucial in providing students with meaningful work experiences. The Richland 2 website aaa emphasizes that these partnerships “Create a mutually beneficial relationship where students gain practical skills, and businesses benefit from fresh perspectives and potential future employees.”
This symbiotic relationship ensures that students are well-prepared for the workforce while contributing to the local economy. Evidence from the Westwood High School website showcases several success stories of students who have thrived in the WBL program.
Tara Smith also mentions, “Students need to be job-ready. During the fall, seniors focus on their IGP and talk with their counselors about what has changed, what they want to do after graduation, or if nothing has changed and they would like to continue doing what they are doing now.”
For instance, students have had the opportunity to work with renowned companies in fields such as healthcare, engineering, and information technology. These experiences not only bolster their resumes but also provide them with a competitive edge in college admissions and future job markets.
Moreover, the WBL program at Westwood High School is not just about gaining work experience; it also focuses on developing essential soft skills.
The Richland 2 website notes that students learn “critical thinking, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills,” which are vital for success in any career.
These skills are often highlighted by employers as crucial attributes for potential hires, making the WBL program an invaluable part of the student’s education. The Work-Based Learning program at Westwood High School is a shining example of how education can be transformed to meet the needs of the 21st-century workforce.
By providing students with real-world experiences, fostering strong community partnerships, and focusing on essential skill development, the WBL program ensures that students are well-equipped to navigate their future careers with confidence and competence. As the Richland 2 website rightly puts it, “WBL is not just a program; it’s a pathway to success.”
