Washington, D.C. — A new report from the Center for American Progress identifies key themes in recently passed state legislation that expands or improves upon work-based learning models for K-12 schools across the country.
Worked-based learning is a proven strategy for enhancing traditional classroom learning by connecting lessons to the workplace. A high-quality program can be complicated to craft because it requires schools to collaborate closely with local industries to develop innovative learning opportunities for students. In the 2023 legislative sessions, 34 states and Washington, D.C., enacted laws related to this learning model.
CAP’s analysis reveals five main themes in how states are adapting to the increased interest in K-12 work-based learning models. These strategies include:
- Promoting equitable access to work-based learning opportunities for marginalized student populations
- Providing dedicated funding to expand opportunities for students to build relevant career skills and experience
- Strengthening program requirements and data reporting to identify gaps in learner access and success
- Expanding opportunities through public-private partnerships
- Altering state-level work-based learning governance structures to promote higher-quality work-based learning opportunities
“While states have recently made strides to increase the number of work-based learning opportunities, they must do more to include strategies that amplify these programs’ reach and center equitable access for all students,” said Tania Otero Martinez, a policy analyst for K-12 Education Policy at CAP and co-author of the report.
“The modern economy requires more and more adaptation over the course of a person’s career,” said Paige Shoemaker DeMio, a policy analyst for K-12 Education Policy at CAP and co-author of the report. “Exposing students to high-quality work-based learning opportunities helps set them up to be successful lifelong learners, whether they plan to attend college or head into the workforce upon graduation.”
Read the report: “K-12 Work-Based Learning Opportunities: A 50-State Scan of 2023 Legislative Action” by Tania Otero Martinez, Allie Pearce, and Paige Shoemaker DeMio
For more information or to speak with an expert, contact Mishka Espey at [email protected].