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Work Based Learning

Cooperative Education is a structured component of the Career and Technical Education (CTE) curriculum that integrates classroom instruction with productive, progressive, supervised, work-based “experiences or apprenticeships” (Paid) and “internships” (Unpaid), related to students’ career objectives. Content is planned for students through a cooperative arrangement between the school and employer as a component of work-based learning.

It is recommended, but not required, that a student obtain concentrator status, (two courses within a CTE program) prior to enrollment in cooperative education. Students who have not obtained concentrator status must have successfully completed a minimum of one CTE credit. The Career Preparedness course will count as a Career Technical course.

A completed application packet is required to be considered for any Work-Based Learning/Co-Op. placement. Application packets can be obtained by visiting the HTHS Guidance Office or from Amber Benson, Co-Op Coordinator. 


The Coordinator will ensure that all requirements for cooperative education are met. The Coordinator ensures that the student:

  • Is at least 16 years of age.
  • Is classified as an 11th or 12th grader.
  • Is on track for graduation.
  • Has a clearly defined career objective.
  • Possesses the knowledge, skills, behavioral qualities, and abilities required for successful employment.
  • Is physically and mentally capable of performing the essential functions of the desired work-based experience. (Essential functions are responsibilities that must be performed by the position as identified by business and industry professionals. This list should be discussed with all students and/or at all IEP meetings).
  • Has successfully completed the required prerequisite course, Career Preparedness, or documentation of course content objectives achieved.
  • Has an acceptable attendance, grade, and discipline record as validated by the Coordinator.
  • Has completed an Application for Enrollment.
  • Has provided the names of a minimum of three educators that know, and are not related to, the student and will complete recommendation forms including the teacher of the career cluster course, if applicable.

 
Students must successfully complete 140 work hours to earn one (1) course credit and a majority of these hours (more than 50%) should be worked Monday through Friday.

Cooperative Education - 1st credit earned
Cooperative Education - 2nd credit earned
Cooperative Education - 3rd credit earned
Cooperative Education - 4th credit earned
Cooperative Education Seminar – 5th credit
Cooperative Education Seminar – 6th credit

Students are ultimately responsible for securing their own work experience/apprenticeship (paid) or internship (unpaid). The HTHS Cooperative Education Coordinator may have leads for jobs or internships and will provide any needed assistance with resumes, job applications, etc.