Jennifer Batchelor

Just because you may have a business partner eager to engage with your district and schools, this does not mean they are necessarily a good match for WBL opportunities. The information provided in this section gives me a good foundation of how to start this process of making sure everyone involved is actually on the same page.

I like how you broke down pieces of a Training Plan and showed how each one is critical to making the best fit for a placement.  I especially appreciated that students were seen as key members of a 'training team'.  Input and reflection they provide about themselves shines a different light 

Although I have several ideas on what I see the students doing and how to involve business and industry partners, this content is helping me conceptualize and break down the actual process of where and how to begin.

I read about amazing programs that other districts have and just need to realize, this did not happen overnight. 

We already have much in place, so I need to be patient and learn to be clear about my vision.  I  also need to be cognizant that this will require the assistance of others and that I need to rely on my colleagues… >>>

With regards to this section, I feel lucky in that our district has already started this work.  We have several identified champions, as well as a strong relationship with our area Economic Development council.  I feel the connections we establish with business and industry partners through this council have been far more beneficial than trying to develop and maintain relationships with civic and business organizations such as Chambers of Commerce or Rotary clubs. 

I am passionate about career-connected learning and work-based learning opportunities for students.  This  is crucial for a student to have the knowledge to make an appropriate decision about post-secondary options.  Anytime I read materials defining WBL, and providing additional methods to categorize and explain what, exactly, WBL is and what the benefits are, I feel better equipped to convey to my colleagues, classroom teachers and both district and school-based admin staff members.