The Larry Summers Career and Technical Center’s Work-Based Learning program the Future Workforce Shaping

Emma O’Bryant

A Work-Based Learning (WBL) program in Yazoo City, Mississippi is creating meaningful opportunities for students at Larry Summers Career and Technical Center. The WBL program is headed by Coordinator Valerie Smith. She describes WBL programs as a “chance to make a meaningful impact on students’ career readiness,” and she has done just that by facilitating oppor- tunities for her students to prepare for the next step. Smith has coordinated a wide range of internships and apprenticeships for her students. These experiences cover several fields including “healthcare, technology, law and public safety, automotive, education, construction, manufacturing and calibration.”

One advantage to WBL is the handson learning environment cultivated. Smith said, “By coordinating internships, apprenticeships and job-shad - owing opportunities, I can create pathways that make learning more practical and impactful.” Therefore, students can obtain more information through this structure of learning. WBL creates a setting where lessons are easier to digest for students because they have a first-hand look on the job. Smith said, “Students involved in the program seem more motivated and engaged as they see how their learning directly connects to real-world applications.” Students can get this real-world experience by doing things like going to a nursing home, a housing authority, doing ride-alongs with the sheriff’s department and being in a courtroom.

Opposite page left: Kiara Ousley and Kemora Butler assist the Martha Coker Nursing Home staff in making beds and doing other daily activities. Opposite page right: Jaylon Davis is learning to use diagnostic tools and software to identify vehicle issues at Mark Performance Automotive Shop. Above: Chauncey Epps and William Washington assisted in organizing community outreach events and the preparation of education materials for community presentation with the Yazoo County Sheriff’s Department.

Kemora Butler, a student who interns at Martha Coker Nursing Home, says, “The workers have welcomed me with open arms since I started my 11th grade year and have given me the opportunity to learn from them during my senior year before I go off to college to major in nursing.” The education gained from experiences like Butler’s is unlike anything a student could grasp while sitting in a classroom. Through Larry Summers CTE Center’s WBL program, students can take an active, hands-on approach to learning.

The effects of this program and Smith’s work have been evident. Smith states, “Students have shared that they feel more prepared and confident about their future careers after participating in the Work-Based Learning Program.” This change in student’s mindsets is the purpose of WBL. Some essential skills have also been developed by students, including “communication, teamwork and problem-solving,” according to Chauncey Epps, a student intern at the Yazoo County Sheriff’s Department who witnessed “firsthand the challenges and responsibilities of being a deputy sheriff.” Epps said, “It was fascinating to see the coordination and teamwork among the officers, as well as their interactions with the community.” He also said, “I was struck by the professionalism and dedication of the officers.”

Moreover, students are also benefiting in other areas as a result of WBL. Smith said, “I’ve noticed that some students are more motivated in their studies, as they see the direct connection between their education and career goals.” Student Jaylon Davis who interns for Mark’s Automotive Performance Shop says the instruction he received “made the learning process simple and rewarding.” The hands-on learning approach has enabled Davis to understand how he learns best and which areas of study he is most interested in. Therefore, WBL is bettering their education through making the students become more motivated and focused. This program is especially impressive because the coordinator, Smith, is only in her first year heading it. Before she started in this position, the school district had one other coordinator who was only on the job for one month. Smith inherited a young, undeveloped program and turned it into an invaluable opportunity for students. She was able to do so through being “passionate about helping students discover and develop their skills, talents and career interests.”

She recognizes the importance of WBL programs for students. She said, “Preparing students for the workforce is crucial, and I see this role as a chance to equip them with the skills, confidence and networks they need to succeed in their careers.” Smith also made sure to note how she, as a coordinator, has benefited through her experience. She says, “Personally, it’s been incredibly rewarding to see students gain confidence and skills through the Work-Based Learning experiences, which has deepened my sense of purpose in this role.” Larry Summers CTE Director Yolanda Strong is also impressed with Smith’s work, and states, “She has motivated her students to identify their skills, career goals and areas of interest. Her students are now aware of the value of gaining practical experience through internships, apprenticeships and job experience.” Coordinators like Valerie Smith enable Mississippi youth to be confidently prepared and make an informed decision regarding their future career paths.