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.
A list of job opportunities for students listed by local employers.
Employers! We welcome you to post your job/internship opportunity for our students! Please email ameyer@hamiltonschools.us for the password and further information to our job posting website!
Work Based Learning Stories
Tom Burton, a well-known business owner in Hamilton, is stepping into a new role as the head of Hamilton High School's brand-new HVAC program. After successfully running Burton Heating & Cooling for 35 years, Tom is now embracing his retirement by teaching and sharing his expertise with the next generation.
As a seasoned professional in the HVAC industry, Tom has made a smooth transition from business owner to educator. In just three weeks, he’s already made a significant impact on his students. His hands-on approach and decades of experience have provided students with a unique opportunity to gain real-world skills in a growing industry.
Despite his success, Burton has found a new appreciation for the teaching profession. “I have much more respect for teachers now,” he admitted after experiencing the daily challenges and rewards of the classroom firsthand.
With Tom Burton at the helm of the program, Hamilton High School is well on its way to producing skilled, job-ready graduates in the HVAC field and beyond.
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.
From Business Owner to Hamilton High School HVAC Teacher, Meet Mr. Tom Burton September 11, 2024
As a successful business owner of 35 years, Mr. Burton is now learning a new role
Hamilton starts HVAC class at Hamilton High School as part of its commitment to Work Based Learning July 23, 2024
Local business owner Tom Burton hired to teach the new class
First generation college student gets a jump start from Hamilton High School May 28, 2024
2024 HHS graduate Michael Olsen set to enroll at Davenport University with 45 credits
Get to know Hamilton Community Schools May 10, 2024
Watch & Listen: Hamilton parents, students, and staff members discuss the special offerings of our district and community
