Work-Based Learning Part of Expanding Opportunities for CCSD Students
August 20, 2015
CHARLESTON, SC – Gabrielle “Gaby” Stewart returned to Wando High School this week to start her junior year. But she’s on a different path than most of her other classmates. Gaby recently accepted an apprenticeship at the Charleston County School District’s (CCSD) Information Technology Help Desk.
Over the next two years, Gaby will receive paid, on-the-job training, and graduate high school with a certificate from Trident Tech as well as a U.S. Department of Labor credential. This is in addition to her AP coursework and the various school clubs and organizations in which she volunteers and participates. She is excited about the opportunity because it helps her develop marketable skills and save money for college.
“The apprenticeship program with CCSD is an extraordinary opportunity that will provide paid work experience in a professional field while earning college credit,” said Gaby. “I will be able to work with practiced technology specialists as a support technician and use this experience to enrich my community and further my educational and career goals.”
During the school year, Gaby will work five hours a week at CCSD and then full-time over the next two summers. She will be partnered with a mentor through the apprenticeship to help supervise and guide her learning.
“Information Technology is a growing and in-demand field that requires the hands on learning and experience that an apprenticeship with the CCSD Help Desk will help provide. This is a fantastic opportunity for Gaby and we look forward to her being part of our team for the next two years,” said John McCarron, Chief Information Officer.
For the 2015/2016 academic year, 21 students from 10 CCSD high schools have been hired as Youth Apprentices by local companies, and accepted at Trident Technical College for job related education.
“We’re thrilled Gaby has been hired for an apprenticeship, working with the Department of Information Technology – she is the first youth apprentice hired by CCSD,” said Ginger Reijners, Director of Career and Technology Education
This opportunity for work-based learning is an initiative the District will continue to expand through partnerships with organizations like Apprenticeship Carolina, and is led by the CCSD Career and Technology Education support team. To find out more about this effort, visit: www.charlestonempowered.com and www.apprenticeshipcarolina.com.
