Gina Morrison

I am really curious about the Urban Alliance WBL Model for at risk students. I would like to think about that in terms of what is possible in our district. Also, I want to think more about employability skills and how they can be added/integrated into the work we are currently doing at the middle school level. 

I'm thinking a lot about Perkins V and how it is being addressed in our District. How are we reporting this for our middle school WBL programs and what is happening at the high school level that is creating a brand model for measuring all of the WBL activities for the district. 

We have some gaps in our district WBL continuum. For example, we have a very robust WBL program in the middle school level, but nothing available for students in the 9/10 grade levels. Then, they are able to take WBL classes in their 11/12 grade years. So, I think we need to keep pressing into the 9/10 grade levels. A WBL data base for the district is an amazing idea and one I'd like to further explore.

I had not previously thought about both employer and supervisor onboarding for a WBL student experience, but it makes perfect sense. Placements are made by the coordinator, but the business is counting on the leadership of the WBL organization to share the key information. 

I am reminded the clear is kind. Agreements outline each partner's responsibilities and decrease confusion, thereby increasing accountability and the ability to succeed. I particularly liked the student taking a self-evaluation, which will provide them an opportunity to self-reflect. I appreciate the sample evaluation form provided in this unit. I will use it in our WBL experience. 

I love how comprehensive this unit is in discussing the roll of the coordinator. I love the social media posts for getting the word out. I also love how important a strong working relationship needs to be with school admin. I am particularly impressed with the evaluation component for ALL stakeholders involved in the program. 

I am very familiar with community champions, however, I'm very curious about Perkins funding at the Middle School level. I understand that Perkins funding is available in our district, however, it seems to be very tied up at the high school level by the CTE teachers. I do not know who their community board is or who their community champions are. I'm interested in learning more! 

Our school has an active Job Shadow Program and I see through what I've learned so far that there needs to be more thoughtful intention put into orientations, detailed training agreements, exit activities and assignments. I also think we could integrate a mock interview into the Job Shadow, since it's an eight week experience.