ACTE's National Work-Based Learning Conference

Strong WBL programs depend on school-industry partnerships. Yet, schools and businesses face unique challenges in this phase of the work which can impede program development. This interactive session is based on the presenter’s research of exemplary school-industry partnerships that demonstrate how communities overcame partnership barriers and built local systems that ensure all youth have access to high-quality WBL. Participants will hear evidence from three communities in very different settings (rural, urban, and suburban) and explore common design principles used to create and sustain partnerships. Additionally, participants will utilize new strategies to develop and strengthen partnerships with organizations in their backyard that enhance existing WBL offerings.