Crosstown High's Work-Based Learning Program
What if the most powerful classroom in Memphis isn't a classroom at all? At Crosstown High, some of the most important learning happens on job sites, at front desks, and in workplaces across the city.
The Work-Based Learning program at Crosstown High is one of the most powerful examples of innovative education happening in Memphis right now.
Doing Meaningful Work
Work-Based Learning at Crosstown High grew out of a clear belief about what students need.
"From the beginning, Crosstown has centered place-based learning and internships," says Camille Bielling, who leads the program. "We know that hands-on, experiential learning is very powerful, especially for teenagers. Being in workplaces allows students to see themselves in different professional roles, which can help them know if it's something they may want to study in school, or even a job they may want to move directly into after graduation."
That vision is rooted directly in the school's mission. "One of the core values of our mission is 'Doing Meaningful Work,'" Bielling explains. "We believe student learning can translate to the real world and want to provide opportunities for authentic learning experiences. We want our students to grow as people, not just academically."
How It Works
"A typical week varies widely from student to student," Bielling says. "The common denominator is that some students can leave school each day at lunch time, depending on their individual schedules. This allows students to work more hours during the school week, broadening their availability and opportunities for learning."
Placements range from paid jobs to internships to apprenticeships. Students are responsible for finding their own placement, a built-in lesson in initiative and self-advocacy.
Senior Lily Woods has been working at the Church Health YMCA for over a year as a fitness floor associate. She describes juggling front desk responsibilities, equipment walkthroughs, membership management, and customer service.
"Being able to work with every single person and make sure that you actually are tending to each individual's needs is very important," Woods says. "A lot of people will come into a place and not expect all of their needs to be met. And so they approach you with that mentality. The fact that I'm able to help somebody out is very enriching to me, because it makes it a lot easier to put a smile on someone's face when their needs are actually met."
Skills You Can't Learn in a Classroom
"I think one of the biggest changes is in their communication skills. Communicating on social media, technology, or in a classroom is wildly different from communication in a professional setting. There is an increased level of personal responsibility in the workplace that translates to the school setting. Students become better at advocating for themselves, communicating around deadlines, and identifying their progress and trajectory."
She also points to something less tangible but just as important: "I also see a tremendous increase in confidence. I think being given such a high level of trust to leave school early and work in a job does wonders for this. There is pride when I visit them at their workplace and allow them to show their learning and what they are trusted with, and it's a beautiful thing.
Additionally, students learn how to take initiative in the workplace. In school, they follow a bell schedule and are instructed on what to do in each class. On the job, they often need to self-start and take initiative. This can be a big adjustment for students, but it is such a valuable skill to learn."
HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED
Crosstown High's Work-Based Learning program is built to be a win for everyone, and it's designed to be low-lift for employers. If your organization can offer a placement, internship, or apprenticeship to a Crosstown High student, now is the time to step up. These students are engaged, motivated, and ready to work. Reach out to Camille Bielling for more information.
