MCPS received the Workforce Readiness Award from the Virginia School Boards Association for the success of the division’s work-based learning program, a program that prepares students to be the future workforce for our region by exposing them to careers early and providing opportunities to experience careers first-hand.
“Exposing students to careers early benefits both the student and the future employer and that is why our work-based learning program was created,” said Superintendent Mark Miear. “We have seen success locally and are proud to receive this state-level honor.”
More than 200 local businesses have committed to providing workplace opportunities for MCPS students, either in the form of job shadowing, mentorship or internship placement. More than 300 high school students participated in a work-based learning program last school year.
The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is a partner in the MCPS work ready program through the Work Ready Diploma Seal. This diploma seal can be earned by any high school student who completes sequential coursework in a career pathway, passes the national work readiness exam, and participates in a work-based learning experience with an evaluation by an employer. In 2018-19, more than 100 students graduated with a Work Ready Diploma Seal.
The VSBA Workforce Readiness Award recognizes Virginia school divisions who have achieved excellence in workforce readiness through an innovative program. MCPS was selected as the first place honoree in school divisions with a student population between 5,000 and 10,000 students.
