The Texas Workforce Commission has granted $200,000 to Workforce Solutions for North Central Texas (WSNCT) to support over 150 teachers in preparing students for high-demand careers across a 14-county area. Selected educators will participate in the Summer 2024 iWork: Teacher Externship program, partnering with local employers for job shadowing and immersive experiences.
During the week-long program, teachers will develop lesson plans focusing on skills required in sought-after industries, which they will implement in the 2024-2025 school year. This initiative, now in its fourth year, aims to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world employment opportunities.
Last year, 44 educators from three school districts and 39 businesses participated, and this grant will significantly expand the program's reach across Collin, Denton, Ellis, Erath, Hood, Hunt, Johnson, Kaufman, Navarro, Palo Pinto, Parker, Rockwall, Somervell, and Wise counties.
Reflecting on the program, one Allen High School teacher, who previously collaborated with the Allen Fairview Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the importance of exposing educators to diverse industries, stating, "...teaching can be its own little bubble. Realistically most of my students will advance to professions outside of education. There’s no substitute for the chance to learn and network with other professionals in a different industry."
Businesses interested in hosting teachers can apply at www.dfwjobs.com, while inquiries about the Summer 2024 iWork: Teacher Externship can be directed to externship@dfwjobs.com.
