SUSD branches out beyond the classroom to serve community better
Staff Reports | Digital Free Press
There is more to preparing students for the future than what takes place in the classroom, and Scottsdale Unified School District is making that happen for high school students in two new ways.
Both offer students opportunities to explore possible careers while at the same time contributing to the community’s economy and social well-being, SUSD officials say.
Part of the district’s career and technical education offerings, SUSD’s new work-based Learning program provides internship opportunities that seamlessly integrate classroom learning with real-world, practical work experience through local employers.
Under the guidance of experienced mentors or supervisors, students intern in professional settings, allowing them to apply what they learn in school and develop valuable workplace skills.
Dave White teaches business and finance classes at SUSD’s Chaparral High School and is the district’s WBL Coordinator.
“The goal of work-based learning is to provide SUSD CTE students with a holistic learning experience that prepares them for the demands of the workplace, enhances their career prospects, and facilitates their personal and professional growth.”
Mr. White says he believes the WBL is a win-win for all involved.
“It benefits both students and employers by providing practical skills development, career exploration, networking opportunities, and enhanced employability for students, while offering access to talent, fresh perspectives, cost-effective recruitment, and training opportunities for employers.”
SUSD’s WBL internships cover a wide range of fields, including business, finance, software development and coding, information technology, film and tv, nursing, sports medicine, biotechnology, criminal justice, culinary, hospitality, engineering, technical theatre, graphic design, audio production, and marketing.
Community volunteering class at SUSD
SUSD is also announcing its new community volunteering class, a pioneering initiative that empowers high school students to earn academic credit for their contributions to the work of reputable local community organizations.
Through the class, students not only accumulate volunteer hours but also have the chance to nurture a genuine passion for community service. The community volunteering class is designed to empower students to explore their personal interests, be philanthropic with their time outside of school, and discover how these passions can be channeled into future career choices.
Going beyond traditional academics, students are engaged in gaining valuable life experiences that create a sense of empathy and responsibility to their community that will serve them well, no matter what professional path they pursue.
