Work Based Learning
Work Based Learning gives students an opportunity to bring relevance to learning, explore career possibilities, and make informed decisions about their future career.
As part of the District Plan, all Hamilton students will graduate with career and life skills necessary to be informed consumers, skillful and productive workers, and active citizens.
Work Based Learning will develop and implement business partnerships offering Hamilton Community Schools students opportunities for real-world career explanation and skill building.
After approval from the Board of Education, 2027 Hamilton Community Schools graduates will be based on high school class credit and experiences. From fifth grade through senior year, all students will be exposed to Work Based Learning.
Additional information about Work Based Learning and answers to frequently asked questions.
A list of terms related to Work Based Learning and a description of what they mean.
Naviance is a platform that Hamilton uses for EDP completion, requesting transcripts, getting letters of recommendations, searching for colleges, applying to colleges, creating resumes, and completing reflections as it relates to Work Based Learning Experiences. An EDP is a series of tasks and activities, a portfolio of experiences, assessments, and goals related to a student's interests, abilities, and future plans.
An interactive list of all Work Based Learning opportunities for Hamilton Community Schools students.
Youth Employment Regulations
Learn more about Hamilton Work Based Learning
Work Based Learning Stories
Hamilton Community Schools is excited to announce that the district has been awarded a Section 61v Career and Technical Education Grant from the Michigan Department of Education. This significant grant will allow Hamilton Middle School to establish a new MEERA (Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, Robotics, and Automation) lab for students in 6th - 8th grade, creating exciting opportunities for hands-on learning and career exploration at an earlier age in manufacturing and engineering.
The new MEERA lab is designed to introduce middle school students to the rapidly growing fields of advanced manufacturing, engineering, automation, robotics, and skilled trades. Students will engage in project-based learning experiences that encourage creativity, critical thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving while working with industry-relevant equipment and technology. By providing these experiences in middle school, students will have more time to discover their interests and build confidence before selecting high school Career and Technical Education pathways.
Students will experience technologies that mirror those used in today's advanced manufacturing and skilled trades industries. Through hands-on projects, they will design and create products using 3D printers, explore virtual reality welding simulators, learn precision manufacturing with CNC machines, and build and program electronic circuits. These engaging experiences will foster creativity, problem-solving, and technical skills while introducing students to exciting career opportunities available right here in West Michigan.
The grant also strengthens Hamilton Community Schools' commitment to preparing students for high-demand careers that are vital to the West Michigan economy. Employers throughout our region continue to seek skilled workers in manufacturing, engineering, construction, and technical trades. The MEERA lab will help students develop foundational skills that can lead to future opportunities in our high school CTE programs, dual enrollment, apprenticeships, and postsecondary education.
The addition of the MEERA lab is another example of Hamilton Community Schools' continued investment in innovative programming that prepares every student for success after graduation. District staff have worked closely with regional education partners, local businesses, and industry leaders to ensure the program reflects the skills employers value most and aligns with future workforce needs. This is only the tip of the iceberg for what is to come. Stay tuned for more exciting news very soon!
Work Based Learning Contacts
Ashley Meyer
Work Based Learning/Experiential Learning Coordinator
ameyer@hamiltonschools.us
Mrs. Meyer can answer questions about business and community partnerships, district Work Based Learning opportunities and WBL curriculum.
Madeline Gentile
Business Department Teacher & Work Based Learning Advisor
mgentile@hamiltonschools.us
Mrs. Gentile can answer questions about Co-op, high school Work Based Learning opportunities, and Work Based Learning graduation requirements.
Mat Rehkopf
Director of Career, College & Innovative Programs
mlrehkop@hamiltonschools.us
Mr. Rehkopf can answer questions about curriculum.
Hamilton Community Schools Awarded 61v Grant to Launch Middle School MEERA Lab July 7, 2026
The grant from the Michigan Department of Education establishes a lab for 6th-8th Grade Students
Hamilton students tackle real-world business challenges through Summer Project-Based Learning June 24, 2026
15 students help solve challenges in the work place!
Hamilton Graduates Gain Real-World Healthcare Experience Through New CNA Program May 29, 2026
12 Hawkeyes from the Class of 2026 are taking advantage of this new and unique program!
Hamilton High School CDL Program Helps Students Hit the Road Before Graduation May 15, 2026
One of the only high school CDL programs in the national continues to create career-ready opportunities
