Work-Based Learning Information

2025-2026 Economic Impact

Through internships and job experiences, our students are gaining valuable skills—and making a measurable difference in our local economy.

Future Ready Bulldogs

This program is designed to provide high school students with valuable work experience and skills that will prepare them for future career opportunities.

Future Ready Bulldogs Application

Teacher Reference

This Teacher Reference form is for a teacher to refer a student to participate in the Future Ready Bulldogs Program.

Teacher Reference Form

Internal Internship Opportunities

IT INTERNSHIP

Grades: 11-12, Year: 2 CR, Prerequisite: Intro to Computers, AP Computer Science, or IHCC Discovery Academy Computer Software/Cybersecurity Courses. Application, teacher recommendation, and interview.

Students will be spending the first few months working to complete a Google I.T. Certificate including elements in Computer Basics, Networking, System Administration, and Cyber Security. During their training, students will get hands-on experience with “customer” interaction and technology maintenance. Once the training is complete, students will get the opportunity to run the Help Desk themselves while they are in the class. You don’t want to miss this paid internship opportunity. #9993

BULLDOGS NETWORK INTERNSHIP

Grades: 10-12, Semester: 1 CR, Prerequisite: Bulldogs Network. Application, teacher recommendation, and interview.

This immersive, hands-on internship places students at the center of live event broadcasting for school athletics and activities. Interns gain professional experience operating cameras, managing audio, creating graphics, and supporting live stream production from setup to breakdown. Classroom instruction builds foundational skills in video broadcasting, editing, lighting, and sound, while on-site event work develops teamwork, communication, and real-time problem-solving. Students collaborate with peers and mentors to produce engaging, high-quality broadcasts and grow technical and creative proficiency. Recommended for students interested in media, communication, and production careers. #80272

External Internship Opportunities

WORK-BASED LEARNING (WBL) INTERNSHIP

Grades: 11-12, Semester: 1 HS CR, Prerequisite: COM777 OR Project-Based Internship Academy, applicatoion, teacher recommendation, and interview

Step into your future with our exciting Work-Based Learning (WBL) Internship Program. Designed for students looking to explore potential career paths, this course places students directly into a local business, non-profit organization, or government agency.

Students will need to spend designated school hours working alongside industry professionals, gaining firsthand experience, developing essential workplace skills, and building a professional network. Interns must provide their own transportation. Internship host sites may require drug testing, health screenings, and background checks. #2710

PROJECT-BASED INTERNSHIP ACADEMY (new 2027-28 school year)

Grades: 11-12, Semester: 2 Period Block, 2 CR, No Prerequisite

Are you ready to transform your ideas into reality and make an impact? Enroll in this innovative course, where you will take charge of a real project that creates value for a business, organization, or your community, or even your own startup dream.

Whether you choose to work solo or collaborate with others, you will be expected to take initiative, meet clear expectations, and exhibit personal growth throughout the project. The focus is on your development and the real-world applications of your efforts. Take this opportunity to step out of the classroom and into a world of possibilities! #0000

For questions about Work-Based Learning, contact Kolby Mercer, Youth Engagement Coordinator, at kolby.mercer@ottumwaschools.com