COOPERATIVE EDUCATION
Co-Op Coordinator, Leanne Sidney
The Cooperative Education program is designed to acquaint students with the world of work in their related programs and give them opportunities which cannot be duplicated in the classroom. Eligible seniors and adults can participate in the program depending on their progress in the classroom. Approval for a co-op position must come from the technology center's teacher and guidance counselor.
The program provides practical work experience in the student's selected area of trade or technical education. Students develop and practice skills in their field and learn what it's like to participate in an actual world of work atmosphere.
By promoting contacts with a range of businesses, industries and other organizations, cooperative education assures that our vocational programs are effective in training students for employment in their chosen field. Currently, over 80-100 employers have provided work to our senior students. These associations also serve to help the school in keeping abreast of technical trends in business and industry, and develop a positive relationship between industry and education.
The program is monitored by a certified Cooperative Education Coordinator who insures that the students and employers are following the guidelines of the program. The student's performance is rated periodically by each employer. The coordinator makes regular observation visits to the student's place of employment.
PROCEDURE FOR PLACEMENT OF A CO-OP STUDENT:
 | Recommendation is received from the instructor and guidance counselor. |
| The student is interviewed by the coordinator. |
| The student must have a social security card. |
| If the student is a minor, a Worker's Permit must be obtained. |
| The coordinator will arrange for the employee interview. |
| The coordinator will explain student-employer -school responsibilities from the Training Agreement to the student and employer. |
| The coordinator and employer will develop a training plan. |
| A starting date will be established. |
| All necessary paperwork is completed. |
| The student is evaluated by the employer and coordinator periodically each 9 weeks. |
| The student will return to school for two report back days each month to complete wage and hour reports, etc. |
| The Cooperative Education Program for each student will end with the date
of graduation. |
STUDENTS ELIGIBLE FOR COOPERATIVE EDUCATION MUST:
| Be in good academic standing. |
| Be regular in attendance. |
| Display vocational competency. |
| Have parental permission. |
| Be recommended by their vocational instructor. |
| Have an approved co-op program compatible with their vocational studies. |