A New Organizational Model for School-to-Work Transition

Paris and Mason (1995) describe a new organizational model for school-to-work transition:

"The Leadership Model for Planning and Implementing Change for School-to-Work Transition (Paris, 1994) developed at the Center on Education and Work, University of Wisconsin, identifies six strategies for communities to use for improving the transition from school-to-work for all students. While school-to-work-programming looks different from community to community, according to the model, there are several key strategies that should be observable within each effort:
1. Develop an applied and integrated curriculum.

2. Implement classroom-based developmental career guidance.

3. Develop work-based learning opportunities.

4. Create articulation between K-12 and postsecondary education.

5. Work in partnership with business, industry, labor, parents and the community.

6. Provide professional development activities.

These strategies are interconnected and interactive; each is necessary to a comprehensive effort. [The chart below] illustrates the complete model which is based on the continuous improvement process of Plan-Do-Study-Act. The essential stake holders who must be involved in school-to-work reform efforts are shown on the outside ring." (p. 4)

Source: Planning and Implementing Youth Apprenticeship and Work-Based Learning by Kathleen A. Paris and Sarah A. Mason, 1995, Madison, WI: Center on Education and Work, University of Wisconsin.