The goal of this handbook is to provide an overview of 21 experiential School-to-Work activities for students in grades K-14. For each activity you will find a definition, learning objectives, best practice guidelines, and exemplary models, as well as a range of resources and materials available to teachers, students, parents, and businesses.

Who will use this guide?

Teachers, students, parents, employers and community members.
Each will find the STW guide useful for different reasons.

• Students will find career exploration activities they can participate in — ones which will provide exciting experiences and help to establish a vision for their future in the world of work.

• Parents will learn about the wide variety of student learning opportunities offered throughout the Lake Champlain region and about ways to support rigorous academic standards and success in school.

• Employers and community members will learn how many schools and teachers are forming successful partnerships designed to provide students with meaningful career development experiences, expanded opportunity to learn and apply academic concepts and ways to participate.

According to the School-to-Work Glossary of Terms, “learning objectives summarize the knowledge, skills, and abilities that students will be expected to achieve.” We arrived at the learning objectives for each activity through input gathered from over 200 surveys mailed to educators and school administrators throughout the Lake Champlain community. The determination of the appropriate grade level for each learning objective was completed by members of the Student Learning Committee.

What is the purpose of the best practice guidelines and exemplary models?

Best practice guidelines provide you with basic principles for successful implementation of each activity. The practitioners of exemplary models share their activities and experiences with you, providing you with an assortment of examples to follow or modify. Such guidelines can help you design a STW activity that will work smoothly and ensure successful student learning outcomes.