Work-Based Learning

The PWR of Work-Based Learning

Work-based learning encompasses a variety of strategies to offer learners experiential opportunities to explore potential careers. Each of these strategies rely on developing industry relationships and learning opportunities outside of the classroom: 

• “Learning ABOUT Work” strategies focus on exposing learners to a variety of industries
• “Learning THROUGH Work” engages learners in partnerships with industry representatives for hands-on learning
• "Learning AT Work” prepares learners for specific career pathways

Work-Based Learning Continuum and Readiness Assessment 

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Learning About Work Resources

• Meaningful Career Conversations
  • Career Conversations Starters
  • Career Conversation Training
• CTE Career Guidance page
• Individualized Career and Academic Plan (ICAP)

Learning Through Work Resources 

• Lightcast Free Skills-Based Resume Builder
• Pocket Resume - English
• Pocket Resume - Español
• Governor's Summer Job Hunt

Learning At Work Resources 

• Colorado Apprenticeship Director Desk Aid
• Contact your regional Apprenticeship Navigator
• Apprenticeship Program Directory
• CareerWise Colorado Apprenticeships
• Denver Opportunity Youth Initiative

Industry Partnership Strategies

• Arvada Chamber of Commerce WBL Toolkits
• Colorado CTE Employer Engagement
• Pikes Peak Business Partner Guide
• National Youth Employment Coalition Resources for Employer Engagement

WBL Resources

• Colorado Workforce Development Council (CWDC) WBL Guides and Frameworks
• Colorado CTE WBL 
• Colorado State Youth Council
• Colorado Succeeds WBL
• Coalition for Career Development Resources
• Work-Based Learning for Students with High Support Needs: Themes, Strategies, and Policy Recommendations

WBL Examples

• Jeffco Schools WBL
• Poudre Schools WBL
• Canon City PaICE Internships Handbook
• Advanced CTE's State Work-Based Learning Toolkit Innovation Tracker

CDE Requirements

• Guidance on developing and reporting your WBL programming can be found on the CDE Pupil Count website, within the annual Student October Count Audit Resource Guide

Developing Pathways

• Colorado Workforce Development Council (CWDC) Career Pathways Resources

​Legal Resources

• Work-Based Learning in Colorado Myth Busting
• CDLE Labor Law
• CDLE Workers' Compensation
• Fair Labor Standards Act
• Internship Programs under the Fair Labor Standards Act
• Volunteering, Internships, and Unpaid Work Experiences: Legal and Practical Guidelines

Intermediary WBL Program Resources

• Adams County Education Consortium
• Careers in Construction Colorado: available to partner statewide
• Colorado Schools to Work
• Colorado Spring’s Pikes Peak Business and Education Alliance
• Southwest Colorado Education Collaborative
• Larimer and Weld County's NoCo Inspire
• Youth Talent Development Network available to partner statewide