Skip To Main Content

Work-based Learning Student Page

On this page students seeking to participate in a work-based learning experience, whether Cooperative Education or Internship, will find information and resources regarding available placements, rules and procedures, application requirements, and grading procedures. All students may wish to review the orientation slide show to learn more about this exciting opportunity to "Earn While You Learn". 

What is CO-OP?

CO-OP) is designed to help students “bridge the gap” between school and work. It is a unique educational program in which students combine their classroom instruction with on-the-job training. Under the supervision of the Work Based Learning Coordinator, students are placed in approved training sites directly related to their program of study. They report to work on a half day basis approx. four days a week and are required to attend Steel Center one day per week. Work site visits and grade reports are completed regularly to monitor progress and evaluate performance. Students continue to attend their respective high schools the other half of their school day to complete all academic requirements.

Becoming a Cooperative Education Student

Participation is contingent upon the availability of an appropriate training site and demonstration by the student of a readiness to enter the workplace. Both the student and employer must meet the criteria for participation and be approved by the Cooperative Education Coordinator. A school administrator must approve individual exceptions to the criteria. Once all information is obtained and approved, the placement may commence.

Employer Requirements

  • Provide a safe work environment
  • Pay a legal wage equal to or higher than minimum wage ($7.25)
  • Provide wages in the form of a company payroll check with documentation of all standardized deductions
  • Possess workers’ compensation insurance
  • Possess up-to-date Federal and State clearances including criminal history records and child abuse history
  • Sign the Cooperative Education agreement and training plan
  • Provide period evaluation of student performance
  • Adhere to Federal and State regulations regarding employment and child labor laws

Student Requirements

  • Work in area directly related to program of study/career objective
  • Demonstrate satisfactory progress towards the completion of program competencies
  • Completion of 50% or more technical instructional hours; review of NOCTI pre-assessment score
  • 85% or higher attendance rate
  • “C” or better grade average
  • Possess a work permit, if under the age of 18
  • Possess approval of parent/guardian
  • Possess positive recommendation by instructor
  • Possess approval of school administration
  • Provide personal transportation
  • Possess valid PA driver’s license
  • Possess proof of auto insurance

See the WBL Coordinator in Student Services to learn more about CO-OP and discuss your options. 

Work Site Placement

Training sites for CO-OP placements may be established through multiple sources.  An eligible student, with an existing job directly related to the program of study, may be able to turn that job into a cooperative learning experience.  Also, employers periodically contact the school in search of student applicants for open positions.  These postings are provided for student consideration. Lastly, the Work Based Learning Coordinator will assist students with locating and contacting perspective work sites, however, the obtainment of employment is not the sole responsibility of the program coordinator.

CO-OP Evaluation

On a monthly basis, the Work Based Learning Coordinator visits work sites to monitor and record student work performance.  This information, along with rating sheets completed by the employer each quarter, will be used in tabulating the CTE program grade for the marking period.  The Cooperative Education employer evaluation only accounts for the Work Ethic portion of the overall program grade.  CO-OP students will also receive a grade from the Work-Based Learning Coordinator based on how well they complete work logs and communicate, and they will continue to complete tasks (skill and knowledge) assigned by the instructor when returning to the classroom on a weekly basis.

CO-op program rules and procedures

Inclement Weather

During winter months, weather conditions and traveling can become a problem. If schools close because roads become too dangerous to travel, temperatures are at a severe low and/or you feel that is unsafe, you should contact your employers to inform them that you are unable to come to work. Also, contact the work based learning coordinator via REMIND, email, or phone to report your absence. Your safety is always our 1st concern. Note: If you do not report to work and Steel Center is operating remotely, YOU ARE EXPECTED TO LOG INTO CANVAS TO PARTICIPATE IN YOUR CLASSROOM ACTIVITY OR YOU WILL BE MARKED ABSENT.

Remote Days

For any reason Steel Center would have to close, your CTE program will likey operate under remote instruction. Your instructor will provide directions for the daily assignment(s) to be completed. If a closure occurs on your scheduled school return day, be sure to check the class canvas page for details or email your instructor.