This national guide examines six work-based learning programs and the policies, partnerships, staffing, funding, and infrastructure that help career-connected learning succeed. Four of the featured programs are supported by Empower Schools.

In Fast Tracking Student Success, Empower Schools examines how Rural Alliance Zone-32 in East Central Indiana uses cross-district collaboration, shared career pathways, and employer partnerships to help rural students meet new diploma seal requirements. The case study highlights work-based learning, credentials of value, student-run enterprises, and regional pathway design.

In Discover FMI, Empower Schools examines how the Fremont Multi-District Initiative in Colorado expands rural student access to career pathways, industry certifications, and on-the-job training. The case study highlights how rural districts can collaborate across communities to create more equitable opportunities tied to high-wage, high-demand careers.

Empower Schools’ Apprenticeship and Rural Colorado report explores how youth apprenticeship can expand college and career pathways, strengthen local talent pipelines, and support economic development in rural communities. The report highlights apprenticeship models, employer roles, healthcare pathways, and the role Rural Collaboratives can play as regional intermediaries.

Empower Schools’ Colorado Rural Collaboratives guide helps rural communities understand how regional intermediaries can expand college and career pathways across districts. The guide explains how Rural Collaboratives connect school districts, higher education institutions, employers, and community partners to build shared opportunities for students.

Pathways to College and Career outlines a statewide collaboration model for expanding access to college and career pathways across Colorado. The report focuses on the Homegrown Talent Coalition, shared data, policy alignment, pathway implementation, and the conditions needed to help more students earn credentials, college credit, and work-based learning.