Work Based Learning (WBL) Coordinator

Job Title: Work-Based Learning Coordinator

Reports To: Director of Programs and Services
Employment Status: Full-Time, Teaching Contract with Summer Work

Position Overview

The Work-Based Learning (WBL) Coordinator will lead the development, implementation, and management of district-wide work-based learning initiatives for K-12 students. This role will strengthen partnerships with businesses, community organizations, and higher education institutions to provide students with authentic, career-aligned learning experiences. Additionally, the WBL Coordinator will facilitate the Gear-Up Iowa 3.0 grant for freshmen, supporting college and career readiness. This role will also oversee Eagle Academy, the district's alternative education setting for high school students, fostering personalized learning experiences.

Candidates with a background in Project-Based Learning and a valid Iowa Teaching License are preferred. Endorsements in school counseling or multioccupations are highly desired.

Key Responsibilities

Program Development and Implementation

• Establish, coordinate, and oversee job shadowing, internships, pre-apprenticeships, and career-based learning experiences for students.

• Develop and manage partnerships with local and regional businesses, industry professionals, and higher education institutions.

• Collaborate with district and school leadership to integrate work-based learning into academic programming.

• Align WBL experiences with industry-recognized credentials, CTE pathways, and career standards.

Gear-Up Iowa 3.0 Grant Facilitation

• Lead the implementation of the Gear-Up Iowa 3.0 grant for freshmen, ensuring alignment with program goals.

• Provide students with resources and opportunities to explore postsecondary education and career pathways.

• Organize events, workshops, and college visits that promote college and career readiness.

Alternative Education Leadership

• Oversee the Eagle Academy alternative education setting for high school students, providing leadership and support for staff and students.

• Implement personalized learning plans and project-based learning opportunities to meet the unique needs of students.

• Collaborate with counselors, social workers, and educators to support academic and social-emotional success.

Student Support and Engagement

• Provide students with opportunities for career exploration through job site tours, informational interviews, and mentorship programs.

• Organize career days, guest speaker events, and project-based learning experiences aligned with career pathways.

• Support students in developing essential employability skills through workshops on resume writing, interview techniques, and workplace etiquette.

Educator Collaboration and Professional Development

• Facilitate collaboration between educators and industry partners to integrate career readiness into curriculum and instruction.

• Provide training and resources for educators to design and implement career-aligned learning experiences.

• Lead professional development workshops to enhance teacher understanding of industry standards and career pathways.

Community and Stakeholder Engagement

• Act as a liaison between schools, businesses, and community organizations to foster strong, sustainable partnerships.

• Organize networking events and industry forums to support collaboration and knowledge sharing.

• Communicate program successes and opportunities through newsletters, priority mailings, and digital platforms.

Data Management and Evaluation

• Track student participation in WBL experiences and assess program impact through feedback and reflection.

• Monitor and report on key performance indicators to inform program improvement and expansion.

• Collaborate with district leadership to align WBL initiatives with district improvement plans and goals.

Qualifications

• Valid Iowa Teaching License required.

• Endorsed in either school counseling or multioccupations preferred.

• Experience in Project-Based Learning is highly desirable.

• Bachelor’s degree in Education required. Master’s degree preferred.

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in education, career counseling, business partnerships, or a related field.

• Strong understanding of career pathways, workforce development, and industry trends.

• Proven ability to build and sustain partnerships with businesses and community organizations.

• Excellent organizational, communication, and collaboration skills.

• Ability to design and implement career-aligned learning experiences for students of diverse backgrounds.

This Work-Based Learning Coordinator position offers an opportunity to lead transformative initiatives, including Gear-Up Iowa 3.0 and Eagle Academy, empowering students with meaningful career experiences and personalized learning. Join us in preparing the next generation for success in the evolving workforce.