At West Delaware High School, efforts are underway to support students as they work toward meeting the work-based learning requirements implemented in November 2021.

These requirements, designed to prepare students for future careers, include completing a portfolio throughout the year, presenting the portfolio to a government class, and participating in at least one work-based opportunity.

According to a slideshow presented to seniors by Counselor Shelby Piersch, the work-based learning opportunities include an apprenticeship, a completed certified nursing assistant course (CNA), an ag occupation employment experience course (AOEE), and more. (Senior Work Based Learning Presentation)

While many students are successfully fulfilling these requirements, some are facing challenges. “Finding opportunities for students is one of our biggest challenges. Luckily, West Delaware/Manchester has amazing opportunities,” Principal Tim Felderman said. “We are working with students to find opportunities that meet the state’s definition.”

Counselors are available to answer questions and provide instructions/reminders throughout the year. “Communication is key,” Felderman said. “We make sure it is included in class meetings, student information, etc.”

The work-based learning experiences senior Sarah Perez has completed include career construction trades, a welding apprenticeship, and career exploration.

“The school has helped me with these work experiences because if they didn’t have the apprenticeship program, I probably wouldn’t be going into welding after high school,” Perez said.

Perez is appreciative of her work opportunities. “These experiences have given me a better understanding of skills I will need to succeed,” Perez said.