Skip To Main Content

Work-Based Learning

Student crouched next to a baby cow
Students in the lab wearing safety googles and holding beakers
Student drilling to repair a sidewalk
Student welding
Student pouring liquid into beaker
Student drilling to repair a sidewalk
Staff and student observing welding job

Derby Public Schools offers Work-Based Learning (WBL) opportunities to provide Derby High School students with hands-on career experiences, helping them explore and prepare for their future careers. As part of the Individual Plan of Study (IPS), WBL connects classroom learning to real-world careers, allowing students to make informed decisions about high school courses, programs and postsecondary education. Through internships -both paid and unpaid- students develop essential workplace and employability skills while gaining valuable exposure to various industries.

Student Criteria

  • Be at least 17 years old
  • Maintain a 2.0 GPA
  • Have completed at least two Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses
  • Complete 60 hours of WBL per semester to receive credit

Are you a student interested in a Work-Based Learning opportunity?

Are you an area business or organization interested in partnering with Derby Public Schools to provide work-based learning experience? 

Contact:

Sandy Barton
Career Exploration & Individual Plan of Study Educational Leader at sbarton@usd260.com or (316) 788-8478.

Student and staff member setting up work area for welding

District

From Operations to Communications, there are many opportunities for students to learn from staff around the district.

Student standing next to City of Derby Streets work vehicle

City of Derby

Offering internships working for city labs, streets or parks, students gain valuable experience to connect them with postsecondary employment.

Student caring for a baby goat

Community

 WBL connects students with other internships throughout the community in a variety of fields. Including developing opportunities tailored to a specific interest.