SOUTH EASTON — Just under a month into the 2022-2023 school year, hundreds of Southeastern Regional seniors are already applying their skills in their chosen trade.
In the first three weeks of the school year, Southeastern has placed 120 out of 372 seniors — approximately one-third of the class — in cooperative education positions.
While on co-op, students alternate schoolwork with paid employment in their chosen technical field. The students are matched with local businesses, where they learn in-depth from professionals.
Seniors placed in co-op have met the required career and technical competencies in accordance with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education vocational frameworks in their field of study, and have the necessary industry-recognized credentials. Juniors are also able to qualify for the program in some situations.
While students are working in a paid full-time position in their trade — with some students making up to $25 per hour — they are also working for a grade as employers evaluate students’ capabilities and provide feedback to teachers.
This year, the school worked through 50 community partnerships to match students in the school’s 21 vocational programs with employers. Junior students who were placed in co-ops last February were also able to continue in their placement over the summer as well as now into their senior year.
“Providing a successful cooperative education program for our students is really a team effort, and support of the program by our teachers and community partners is vital,” said Vocational Supervisor Mary Kobey. “We have over 50 community partnerships that we worked through to match our students with these excellent opportunities. Our teachers also ensure workplace safety for students and provide support along the way, which is crucial to our ability to build relationships with community partners.”
All students can benefit from cooperative education, including students from low-income families, high-needs students, or students who have English as a second language.
“Career and Technical Education is remarkably beneficial to both students and employers,” said Vocational Supervisor Jarrod Lussier. “The co-op program is supplying employers with the new generation of a skilled workforce that is much needed right now, while also providing students with a high-skilled, paid job while they are still in high school.”
“Co-op opportunities are extensive and versatile, and give students the ability to practice and refine their skills,” said Darla Leighton, Clinical Placement Facilitator. “Students in our medical-related vocational programs are able to apply and expand on what they’ve learned at various clinical sites, as well as explore other areas that may interest them.”
Many students also go on to full-time careers with their co-op placement. A total of 44 students in the Class of 2022 began full-time employment with 35 different employers following their graduation this past June.
“Cooperative education expands on our students’ learning in a way that can’t be replicated within the four walls of a school,” Principal Leslie Weckesser said. “Many trade employers are struggling to find skilled workers and close skills gaps, and Southeastern’s administrative team has challenged seniors to answer that call. Most vocational schools rate success as having 50% of the senior class out on co-op by the time students graduate. Southeastern already has 32% of the senior class placed in the first three weeks of the school year, which is evidence of our students’ drive and skill, and of employers’ needs. We are so proud of all of our students who have already risen to the occasion, and look forward to seeing what they each accomplish in their field this year.”
Employers who would like to take part in this mutually beneficial program are encouraged to email hireahawk@sersd.org and Southeastern will connect with the employers to discuss their needs. Eligible juniors will start being matched with and placed in co-ops in February 2023.
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