SECTION 1: SCHOOLS
This first section outlines the responsibilities that Vermont schools have in ensuring that opportunities for work-based learning are made available for all students, including those with special needs. It specifies the role that a qualified WBL professional plays in this work and emphasizes the necessity of schools’ dedicating trained personnel (either within the school or from an outside partner organization) to coordinate WBL activities in a quality way that meets the needs of each individual student. This section also addresses the importance of conducting a school-wide needs assessment in order to identify gaps and to create a career development plan relative to implementing WBL. It also highlights the need for the WBL coordinators’ proficiency and understanding of the Vermont Gold Standards for Work-Based Learning and the materials incorporated in this Vermont Work-Based Learning Guide. It is recommended that prior to initiating or structuring any work-based learning program, a needs assessment be conducted in order to identify resources already in place, and those which are needed to fill gaps between current conditions and desired outcomes. Needs can be defined as either a desire to improve current performance or to correct a deficiency. Standard 1: Every school makes WBL available as part of a program of study leading to career and college readiness.
Standard 2: A qualified professional facilitates WBL activities as identified in the Vermont Work Based Learning Guide.
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