INDIANAPOLIS (WLKI)- Indiana has launched a digital resource hub designed to help schools, employers and regional partners expand career-connected learning opportunities for K-12 students.
The Work-Based Learning Digital Resource Hub was created through a partnership involving the Indiana Commission for Higher Education, Indiana Department of Education and Ascend Indiana. State officials say it is intended to support the rollout of Indiana's new high school diploma requirements.
The new diploma framework allows students to pursue readiness seals based on their plans after graduation, including college, the workforce or military service. The state says the seals emphasize coursework, work-based learning and credentials with value in the labor market.
The hub includes an employer readiness tool, information on the 11 work-based learning experiences defined by the Department of Education, guidance for designing student experiences and an overview of responsibilities for schools, employers and intermediaries.
A key resource is a training plan and partnership agreement template. Schools must keep a training plan and agreement on file for each student participating in qualifying work-based learning, though schools may continue using existing local forms.
The Indiana Commission for Higher Education recently awarded Ascend Indiana a $100,000 grant to support implementation tools, employer guidance, educator resources and technical assistance.
According to Gov. Mike Braun's office, the hub is meant to make it easier for students to gain workplace experience, explore careers and build professional connections before graduation.