At Sheehy Ford of Ashland, we were honored to participate in the Caroline County Public Schools (CCPS) Work-Based Learning (WBL) Program throughout the 2023-2024 school year. This innovative initiative plays a crucial role in enriching high school education by bridging the gap between academic theory and practical application. The WBL Program provides students with real-world experiences that extend beyond traditional classroom instruction, equipping them with essential skills, professional insights, and a competitive advantage as they prepare for the workforce, military service, or higher education.
Over the course of the school year, 745 students from Caroline High School (CHS) engaged in a diverse array of Work-Based Learning opportunities. These included apprenticeships, clinical experiences, externships, internships, supervised agriculture experiences (SAEs), service learning projects, and school-based enterprises. These hands-on experiences are designed to give students practical skills and a deeper understanding of their chosen fields.
Among these experiences, the 40-hour externship program stood out. Out of the 18 students who participated, 7 were offered full-time positions upon graduation, demonstrating the program’s effectiveness in preparing students for successful careers. We are particularly proud of Abigail Taylor, who became our first student accepted into the apprenticeship program at Sheehy Ford of Ashland.
Abigail had been a dedicated student in the Automotive program for the past two years. She expressed her gratitude, stating that the “entire team at Sheehy Ford has been welcoming and ready to help her grow her career pathway in the Automotive field.” Her automotive teacher, Mr. Johnson, noted her impressive progress, commenting, “Watching Abigail grow from a Tech I student to a Tech II and complete Tech III level work is an amazing experience.” Abigail’s dedication and achievements highlight the success and positive impact of the WBL program.
As CHS continues to expand the WBL program to involve more local businesses, we eagerly anticipate the opportunity to provide additional students with these valuable experiences. This program not only helps students gain a competitive edge as they enter their careers but also supports local businesses like ours in meeting their staffing needs. At Sheehy Ford of Ashland, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of skilled professionals and strengthening our community through impactful partnerships like these.
Want To Get Involved With WBL?!
For businesses and individuals interested in contributing to the WBL Program, there are several ways to engage and make a difference:
Become a Business Partner
Local businesses can become partners in the WBL Program by offering internships, apprenticeships, and job-shadowing opportunities. This collaboration provides students with valuable real-world experience and helps businesses nurture future talent. Businesses interested in participating can reach out to the CCPS WBL Program coordinators to discuss partnership opportunities.
Host Workshops or Seminars
Sharing expertise through workshops or seminars is another way to contribute. Businesses can offer sessions on industry trends, skill development, or career planning, providing students with insights into their fields and helping them prepare for future careers.
Mentorship Programs
Establishing mentorship programs allows professionals to guide and support students. Mentorship can include career advice, skills development, and networking opportunities, helping students navigate their career paths more effectively.
Support Program Initiatives
Supporting the WBL Program through sponsorships or donations can also make a significant impact. Financial support or resources can help expand program offerings, enhance training materials, and provide additional opportunities for students.
By getting involved, businesses and individuals can play a crucial role in shaping the future workforce, supporting the professional growth of young people, and contributing to the local community’s development.
