Joseph M. Barry Career and Technical Educational Center

Work Based Learning

Career Plan: A Roadmap to Post High School Readiness (PDF)

Barry Tech students select a course that will lead to a future career or additional training at a technical school or at a two- or four-year college. They participate in a comprehensive program of career development to assist them in making the kinds of decisions that will help chart their futures. As part of this program, students will take an interest inventory to help reaffirm their career choice or look at other options. Students will work on career plans to help gather information, explore options and prepare for life after high school graduation. With the advent of new and emerging occupations career paths may alter and change. If a student is unsure about a selected program, the school counselor or psychologist is available for consultation.

WORK-BASED LEARNING PROGRAMS: SCHOOL TO CAREERS
Many opportunities exist for students to apply and reinforce classroom learning through different types of experiential programs. All programs are approved and follow guidelines established by the New York State Education Department and Department of Labor and are supervised by a certified Work Experience Teacher-Coordinator. Brief descriptions of the work-based learning offerings are as follows:

Co-Op (Cooperative Occupational Educational Program)
Second year students who meet the eligibility criteria may be recommended by their Career and Technical Education teacher to participate in this program. Co-op students are excused from their Technical Education program on predetermined days in order to report to a program related work place sponsor, where they follow an approved supervised training plan. Students apply classroom learning while earning wages and work experience.

practical application of classroom instruction
on-the-job occupational training under professional supervision
learning/using industry technology and procedures
student success promoted through supervision and evaluation by school and business sponsors
school-to-work link for continuing employment after graduation

Internship Program
This non-paid, work-based learning activity is extended to first and second year students who meet the eligibility criteria. It offers the student-intern advantages similar to the co-op program, except that on-the -job experience is of shorter duration. Students observe, interact and assist the sponsor in their career education field while gaining work experience.

Clinic
This non-paid, teacher supervised, work-based learning activity is part of the required curriculum. Students participate in on-the-job training/instruction at a hospital, nursing home, school or other program-related institution. Students interact with business and industry people in a real-world supervised clinical setting.

Field Trips and Shadowing
Classes visit business and industry sites or attend professional/trade events. In addition, some students may spend one or two days shadowing an employee for a specific event, to gain an awareness of what the job entails and to observe the work environment.

Speakers: Business Partners/Advisory Board Consultants
Teachers invite industry specific-speakers to address students on pertinent topics and trends. Each program meets with Advisory Board Members/consultants to develop and align curriculum with the latest industry technologies and procedures. Sponsors and Mentors of work-based learning programs are recognized at the annual Distinguished Industry Partners/Mentor Recognition Breakfast hosted by students and faculty.

Office of Work-Based Learning Programs, (516) 622-6886
Work/Experiential Education for Diverse Careers - Co-Op Teacher-Coordinators:
Rachel Wilkins, (516) 622-6887 / rwilkins@mail.nasboces.org
John Broderick, (516) 622-6884
Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor: Liz Papadopoulos, (516) 622-6881

View list of Business Partners >>