Doing the Work Together

Educators at Warren Local Schools meet with business representatives and BB2C staff to implement Real World Problem Scenario.

In today's rapidly evolving job market, the need for students to be well-prepared for future careers is more pressing than ever. Public schools in Washington County are well aware of this need and worked diligently throughout the 2023-2024 school year to ensure that students are not only academically equipped but also connected with their communities and career opportunities. This approach, known as Community and Career Connected Learning (CCCL) is key to how schools, educators, business partners, community leaders, and BB2C staff can work together towards successful students, prosperous businesses, and thriving communities.

At the beginning of the school year, BB2C met with administrators and educators at each school district in the county to establish the goals they had for their district. BB2C collaborated closely with these schools, who are official BB2C School Partners—Belpre, Frontier, Fort Frye, Marietta, Warren, Wolf Creek, the Washington County Career Center, and Washington State College of Ohio. They included educators, students, and community members to identify their unique needs and objectives. 

Community & Career Connected Learning (CCCL) Goals set by Washington County Public Schools for 2023-2024: Belpre worked to cultivate a culture to engage students and teachers took advantage of opportunities to increase student retention. Frontier worked on incorporating CCCL activities at all grade levels. Fort Frye focused on reinforcing middle school CCCL and expanded CCCL opportunities in K-5. Marietta aligned its CCCL goals with its vision of "Every Student Every Day." Warren worked towards overall cohesiveness by determining its 'North Star.' Wolf Creek sought to increase direct connections with local business representatives and community engagement. The Washington County Career Center worked to identify barriers to early placements and work-based learning experiences. Washington State College of Ohio focused on regular check-ins with its stakeholders.

Each of these schools implemented specific action steps to achieve their goal. Belpre reviewed student feedback and established a baseline for the number of CCCL opportunities and overall student participation. Frontier created an asset map and met with teachers to develop CCCL opportunities. Fort Frye identified data-sharing needs and connected with career pathway specialists. Marietta expanded internship opportunities and revised career day. Warren revised its CCCL continuum and showcased its initiatives. Wolf Creek increased community engagement and developed a speaker series. The Career Center implemented perception surveys and brainstormed ways to connect with alumni. WSCO tracked connections with BB2C and explored communication improvements with high school students

Community & Career Connected Learning only happens when there is a thriving ecosystem of schools, businesses, community leaders, and organizations who can help facilitate and break down barriers. The relationships developed between these stakeholders allow students to engage in career exploration and connect with their community in ways that allow them to have long term success in their professional pursuits. Inspiring career choice takes experience and ensuring successful students takes a village, and the schools’ are a fundamental part of our village.