• Real-World Learning (RWL) and Work-Based Learning (WBL) Career Continuum

    In 2020, USD 232 was provided an opportunity to develop an Internship Program and create Work-Based Learning opportunities in all USD 232 elementary and secondary schools.  USD 232 was one of five Kansas school districts participating in the initial Kansas State Department of Education's WBL Pilot.

    To develop our RWL initiative, each level below has target areas or goals for increasing student experiences:  

    • At the Elementary School level, the "Career Awareness" target areas are: Guest Speaker, Career Fair, Field Trip, and Tour. 
    • At the Middle School level, the "Career Exploration" target areas are: Job Shadow, Mock Interview, Field Trip, and Career Mentoring. 
    • At the High School level, the "Career Preparation" target areas are:  Internships, Apprenticeships, Work-Based Simulations within the school, Entrepreneurship, and Community Service Learning.

  • WBL & RWL

    Description of graphic image for Kansas Work-Based Learning Continuum

    The left side of the graphic represents the Pre-K to 12th grade Work-Based Learning goals from Kansas State Department of Education.

    Increasing individualization as students connect their interests, skills and goals with career possibilities.

    Career Awareness

    • Guest speaker
    • Career fair
    • Field trip
    • Tour

    Career Exploration

    • Job shadow
    • Mock interview
    • Field trip
    • Career mentoring

    Career Preparation

    • Internship/placement (business, industry, community)
    • Youth registered apprenticeship
    • Simulated work-based experience (school district)
    • Entrepreneurship, ownership
    • Service learning

    Career and Technical Organizations

    The right side of the graphic represents the Real World Learning Goals and Market Value Assests (MVAs) from the Kauffman Foundation

    Career Readiness Indicators
    Graduate with one or more Market Value Assets

    • Nine or more hours college credit towards a degree or certification
    • Internship client projects
    • Industry recognized credential or certificate
    • Entrepreneurship
    • Regionally vetted assets or student outcome example
      • Youth registered apprenticeship
      • Service learning