Work Based Learning at Unity Middle College High School

Unity Middle College High School, a small charter school in Orange County serving predominantly socioeconomically disadvantaged students, seeks to improve college and career readiness by addressing local workforce gaps in high-demand sectors such as Biotechnology, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), and Digital Media Arts (DMA). Despite a graduation rate below the state average, Unity is focused on expanding career pathways aligned with industry needs, collaborating with Santiago Canyon College, PilotCity, Paxton Patterson, and local employers to develop relevant curricula, hands-on labs, and internship opportunities. By leveraging dual enrollment and targeted career exploration starting in 9th grade, Unity aims to equip students with validated skills and certifications, increasing their competitiveness for middle-skill jobs in Orange County’s growing biotech, health, and ICT/DMA sectors, ultimately supporting both student success and regional economic development.

Unity Middle College High School’s K12 Strong Workforce Program work plan focuses on enhancing curriculum and instruction, college and career exploration, postsecondary transition, and work-based learning within the Biotech, ICT, and Digital Media Arts (DMA) pathways. Funded activities include compensating instructors and counselors, purchasing industry-specific labs, and integrating software tools like Gladeo and PilotCity to deepen students’ early exposure to career options and skills. All students begin intensive college and career exploration in 9th grade, progressing through simulated and real internships, dual enrollment courses at Santiago Canyon College, and certification opportunities aligned with Orange County’s workforce needs. The plan emphasizes personalized pathways, ongoing professional development for staff, and close collaboration with partners to support students’ seamless transition to postsecondary education or employment. Expected outcomes include increased certification completion rates, higher college readiness, and improved employability, especially for socioeconomically disadvantaged students, ensuring that every student graduates with a clear, supported plan for career or academic success.