A Practical Guide to Work-Based Learning

Lessons from Six Programs at the Cutting-Edge of Career Education

Published by the Progressive Policy Institute, Rachel Canter and Bruno Manno developed the national guide that examines six programs connecting classroom learning with careers, credentials, and real-world experience.

Four of the programs featured in the guide, RAZ-32, CAST Schools, the Fremont Multidistrict Initiative, and the Career Academy Network of Public Schools, are supported by Empower Schools. Alyssa Morton of Empower Schools also contributed to the guide.

In this resource:

• How the Career Academy Network of Public Schools introduces students to multiple career fields before they select a pathway that leads to work experience, college credit, and industry-recognized credentials

• How CAST Schools brings districts and employers together to design industry-themed schools connected to San Antonio’s high-growth career fields

• How the Fremont Multidistrict Initiative helps rural districts share courses, instructors, transportation, internships, and postsecondary opportunities that no district could provide alone

• How RAZ-32 pools programs and employer partnerships across rural districts while using school-based enterprises and apprenticeships to expand work-based learning

• Purdue Polytechnic High Schools and Launchpad Philly demonstrate additional approaches through university-connected early college experiences, paid technical training, employer projects, and support that extends beyond high school graduation

Best for: State and district leaders, school and program leaders, employers, workforce partners, funders, and organizations designing or expanding career-connected learning programs.

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