Local education leaders spotlight work-based learning curriculum for the new CCHS

Construction of the consolidated Christian County High School is expected to wrap up in spring, but before the school opens, local education leaders are working to create more work-based learning pathways for students.

At Monday’s South Western Kentucky Economic Development Council meeting, Christian County Public School officials and local Chamber of Commerce PreK2Biz Chair Cody Noffsinger shared how work-based learning opportunities would not only support students but the local workforce as well.

High school students already have access to work-based learning opportunities and can participate in co-op programs at local businesses. Noffsinger says in the past, businesses would offer co-op opportunities to support the school system, but he wants business owners to see how the program can benefit them.

Noffsinger says offering co-op opportunities could lead to lower hiring costs and a strong talent pipeline; reduced on-boarding and training expenses; higher returns on investments and more operational support and productivity gains.

Along with working to create more co-op partnerships, consolidated CCHS Executive Principal Ken Carver says they want to create student-based enterprises in each of the career academies. These enterprises will be student-run businesses that operate in the school, and Carver says this will be a great opportunity for students who might not be able to participate in a co-op program.

Beyond the academy structure, Carver says they are also working to expand the advanced placement and dual credit classes they offer. He also says the school’s bell schedule will allow students to participate in career-focused clubs during the school day.

Consolidated CCHS Academy Coach Sandra Hancock spotlighted some of the guaranteed learning experiences students will have throughout their four years of high school. In the Freshman Academy, students will get to explore multiple career fields and find a pathway they may want to pursue. In their sophomore year, students select a career academy pathway and will complete an orientation. Then, in their junior year, students can start job shadowing.

Once senior year rolls around, Hancock says students start working co-op or internship positions. Hancock says they are also working with partnering industries to develop capstone projects for seniors.

CCPS Superintendent Chris Bentzel shared that staff will start moving into the building in May, a ribbon cutting ceremony will be hosted on August 6 and the school will open to students for the first day of school on August 19.