Additional Illustrative Cases

The Office of Educational Research and Improvement (1996) describes 14 case study summaries of exemplary programs in the Study of School-to-Work Initiatives. This four-year study of school-to-work transition focused on the design, implementation, and impact of school-to-work initiatives. Short summaries of several of these case studies relating to business-education partnerships follow.

• Student Career Opportunity Paths In Education (SCOPE), Central Valley High School, Veradale, California
  A comprehensive career information and guidance program designed by a partnership of local businesses and the school. Exploration of careers in the early grades allows high school students to select from career paths such as business marketing and management, technology in society, and creative and applied arts. The fifth year of the program could include community college, a baccalaureate program, military service, trade school, or employment.

• East San Gabriel Valley Regional Occupational Program
  Urban program provides academic, vocational, and support services to prepare students to continue their education or obtain employment after high school. Partners--which include local employers, school districts, community colleges, universities, state service agencies, and the National Council on Aging--are involved in planning and implementing activities to meet the needs of the area.

• Partnership Program at Roy High School, Roy, Utah
  A partnership of postsecondary institutions, local businesses, job services agencies and the schools. The comprehensive counseling and guidance program culminates in a Student Education and Occupational Plan individually crafted for each student. Includes career exploration, self-awareness, career choice, and identification of an appropriate course of study. All students learn communication and problem-solving skills important in life after high school.

• Graphic Arts Academy at Pasadena High School, California
  A school-within-a-school, serving about 100 students in grades 10-12, which integrates academic and vocational courses. The Academy resulted from a partnership between the high school and the Printing Industry Association of Southern California.

• Job Shadows: Brooklyn School and Business Alliance
  Provides opportunities for middle school students in an economically depressed area to work closely with real-life merchants, contractors, and industry tradespeople in their own neighborhoods. Partners include the Brooklyn Economic Development Corporation, the Methodist Hospital of Brooklyn, the Office of External Affairs of the New York City Board of Education, and the New York City Office of Business Services.

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