Expanded Work Based Learning Program

Unity Middle College High School (MCHS) in Orange County seeks to address critical workforce gaps in the Biotechnology, Information and Communications Technology (ICT), and Digital Media Arts (DMA) sectors—fields identified by the regional Strong Workforce Program (SWP) and Labor Market Information (LMI) as high-demand yet undersupplied with qualified middle-skill workers. Serving a predominantly socioeconomically disadvantaged and diverse student population—including English learners and students with special needs—Unity aims to expand equitable access to rigorous, future-focused career technical education (CTE) pathways aligned with Santiago Canyon College’s programs. Through a structured K12 SWP grant project, Unity will enhance dual enrollment, career exploration, internships, and academic supports like tutoring and mentoring, ensuring students develop technical and professional skills for high-wage careers ranging from $45,000 to over $100,000 annually. This project intentionally targets equity gaps by providing tailored guidance and hands-on learning opportunities, fostering improved enrollment, completion, and postsecondary success for underserved students, thereby directly responding to regional labor shortages and preparing students for sustainable employment in growing industries.

The K14 Pathway Quality Strategies work plan, funded by the K12 Strong Workforce Program (SWP), aims to enhance student career readiness and equitable access to high-skill, high-wage industries through four key focus areas: Curriculum and Instruction, College and Career Exploration, Postsecondary Transition and Completion, and Work-Based Learning. The project includes partnerships with local businesses and educational institutions, hiring credentialed CTE teachers, expanding dual enrollment opportunities, increasing on-campus counseling, and developing internships. Expected measurable outcomes include increased student engagement and enrollment in CTE courses, higher dual enrollment and internship participation rates, improved course completion and graduation rates, and strong post-graduation success in employment or further education aligned with high-demand sectors such as Biotechnology, ICT, and Digital Media Arts. Overall, the plan seeks to close equity gaps and prepare students for sustainable, high-wage careers in the community.