Developing Strategies for Implementing School-to-Work Programs

It is important that school staff develop an understanding of the guiding principles of STW programs and the strategies for implementing them. Kathleen Paris (1994) proposes six strategies for implementating STW programs:

Develop an applied and integrated curriculum
Implement classroom-based developmental career guidance
Create articulation between K-12 and postsecondary education
Develop work-based learning opportunities
Work in partnership with business, industry, labor, and the community
Provide professional development activities

The School-to-Work Opportunities Act of 1994 funds three components: school-based learning, work-based learning, and connecting activities to bridge school- and work-based learning. The six key strategies listed above encompass these three components. Therefore, while school-to-work initiatives may differ from community to community, these six strategies should be part of the implementation efforts of all programs. Moreover, serious efforts to improve school-to-work transition for all students require careful planning, with input from all major stakeholders (e.g., teachers, administrators, students, parents, and business and civic representatives). Connecting activities must be built into staff development, collaborative strategic planning, and outcome measurement, and are especially important in building partnerships.

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