High school students at Rochester, Rochester Adams, and Stoney Creek can build career skills before graduation through Rochester Community Schools' work-based learning programs.
The district is pushing families to explore those options before the 2026-27 school year begins Monday, August 24.
RCS released the fourth episode of its "Be Inspired" podcast which focused entirely on career and technical education and work-based learning. The district said the programs give students skills that make them employable after graduation while also laying groundwork for further education.
What the programs include
The district organizes work-based learning into four tiers, according to its career readiness website:
- Career Awareness, including an annual College and Career Fair each October with two- and four-year colleges, trade programs, apprenticeships, and military representatives
- Career Exploration, including the Military ASVAB Test offered each January
- Career Preparation
- Career Training
The district has not published detailed descriptions of what the upper two tiers involve. Classroom-level resources include guest speakers, field trips, and industry partnerships, all tied to the district's Strategic Plan Goal #2.
Who to contact
Karen Malsbury, RCS director of career readiness, CTE, and CFE, leads the program. Families can reach her at [email protected] with questions about enrollment or options for their students.
The district also launched a Career Readiness Hub online for students, parents, and community members. The hub includes resources for career planning, education pathways, workforce development, and FAFSA information.
What's next
Teachers report Tuesday, August 18. Students start with a half day on Monday, August 24.
The College and Career Fair returns in October, though the district has not set a specific date. Families interested in work-based learning for the fall semester should contact Malsbury or visit the Career Readiness Hub before classes begin.
