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REAL WORLD LEARNING

What is Real World Learning?

The Blue Springs School District is excited to bring Real World Learning (RWL) to our community and provide an opportunity for our students and local community members to work together to build a thriving local economy. Our district goal is by 2030 all Blue Springs School District’s students will graduate with a market value asset and a diploma, preparing them for future of work and learning.

What is Market Value Asset?

Market Value Assets (MVA) are industry valued and recognized skills acquired in high school that create a more seamless transition from school to post secondary education and/or the workplace. Students who leave high school with a diploma and market value assets are more likely to enroll in post secondary education/training and successfully navigate the journey from school to employment without getting lost along the way. Market Value Assets include:

  • Job Shadow
  • Internship
  • Client Connected Project
  • College Credit
  • Industry Recognized Credential
  • Entrepreneurial Experience

How can you become a partner in Real World Learning Blue Springs?

Blue Springs employers play a key role in creating access to quality experiences that allow students to see how their interests, aptitudes, and skills connect to local work opportunities. Employers and local community members can get involved in Real World Learning in a variety of ways that make sense for them, providing students with hands-on, authentic problem-solving experiences and connections to professional resources.

Engage in Opportunities

  • Workplace Tour – host students inside work facilities to allow them to see and experience work activities and company/industry culture firsthand.
  • Career Presentation – professionals participate in classroom or event focused on understanding a variety of career fields.
  • Informational Interviews – engage with students in-person or digitally/virtually to answer questions about work, workplace, and careers.
  • Job Shadow – engage with students 1:1 or in small groups to show what a ‘day in the life’ of a job or industry involves. Project Sponsorship – provide authentic projects for students to complete, including coaching from industry professionals along the way.
  • Educator Externships – engage with educators 1:1 or in small groups to show what a ‘day in the life’ of a job or industry involves.

Immerse in Opportunities:

  • Internships – provide student internships (may be paid or unpaid) requiring students to perform real work activities under the supervision of professionals.
  • Apprenticeships – provide paid apprenticeship opportunities and on-the-job training as a pathway to full-time employment.
  • Hosted Classroom – host courses, learning or professional events, and/or provide real-world equipment or other resources needed to support authentic learning environments.

For more information, contact Andy Mayfield by email: amayfield@bssd.net or by phone (816) 874-3440