Work-Based Learning Program

Preparing Students for the Real World: Summit School’s Work-Based Learning Program

At Summit School, we believe that education goes beyond the classroom. Our Work-Based Learning Program is designed to give students real-world experience that helps them build both job skills and confidence. What makes our program truly unique is how we tailor it to fit each student’s strengths, interests, and growth areas. “We’re not just about numbers here,” says the program director. “We really look at each person for who they are, and we want them to feel validated, heard, and important.”

Summit’s Work-Based Learning Program has a long history of forming partnerships with businesses, many of which have been developed through networking with parents and the local community. We work closely with these businesses to ensure that the skills and talents of our students align with the needs of each partner. “Whatever a business needs, we have a student that matches it because everybody’s individualized here,” the director explains. This flexibility means that every student has the chance to succeed in a role that suits their unique abilities.

A Personalized Learning Journey

The program is structured to provide students with a variety of job experiences, giving them the opportunity to explore different fields and discover what they like—and don’t like—about each. Through self-assessments and regular feedback from job coaches, students reflect on their performance and identify areas for growth. This feedback loop helps guide their progress and informs future job placements, ensuring that students continue to develop their strengths while working on any weaknesses.

One of the most rewarding aspects of the program is seeing students thrive in the workplace. “When I visit job sites, I get to see where the students excel and where they might need more support,” says the director. “Sometimes, just a quick observation can reveal something that daily interactions might not. It helps us steer them in the right direction.”

Building Independence and Confidence

A key goal of the Work-Based Learning Program is to help students build the skills they need to navigate the workplace independently. Whether it’s resume building, mock interviews, or learning how to interact professionally, we work closely with teachers, social workers, and job coaches to provide comprehensive support. “We’re not just preparing students for their first job—we’re helping them build skills that will last a lifetime,” the director explains.

The program also fosters emotional growth, as students learn how to handle stress, advocate for themselves, and deal with setbacks in a supportive environment. “We try to make Summit a second home for our students,” says the director. “They feel comfortable enough to let their guard down here, and that’s why they’re able to grow emotionally and professionally.”

A Partnership with Parents

At Summit, we recognize that parents play a critical role in their child’s development, and we actively seek their involvement in the Work-Based Learning Program. Many of our business partnerships are formed through parent connections, and we make it a priority to keep parents informed about their child’s progress. “Parents need to know that their child is in good hands,” says the director. “We listen to their children, we individualize where we can, and we provide a safe, nurturing environment where every student can thrive.”

In the end, Summit’s Work-Based Learning Program is more than just job training—it’s about empowering students to believe in their abilities, preparing them for independence, and giving them the tools to succeed in life.