BHS seeking more businesses for Work-Based Learning program

(BATESVILLE, Ind.) – Batesville High School is seeking more businesses and organizations to join their Work-Based Learning (WBL) program. 

The program gives students on-the-job learning opportunities as part of their graduation requirements. It also provides teens with the opportunity to explore various career interests that exist locally. 

A Work-Based Learning Fair on Thursday, March 12, from 10 to 11 a.m. at Batesville High School. The fair will allow students to market themselves directly to WBL partners.

“Students may remain in one department at a business for a semester or rotate among roles to gain a broader understanding of career pathways,” said Bulldog Ready Community Coordintor Tricia Jennewein. 

In addition to connecting students with potential hosts, the fair will serve as a hands-on learning lab where students practice key professional skills, such as introductions and elevator speeches, confident handshakes and eye contact, workplace etiquette and communication, and professional attire and presentation.

Work-Based Learning placements typically involve students spending one class block (1.5 hours on either Tuesdays/Thursdays or Wednesdays/Fridays) at a host site throughout the school year. 

Because the experience is for academic credit, placements do not need to be paid.

To be matched with students, employers may attend the fair in person or register for WBL online and allow school staff to match students with their organizations. The district’s goal is to match students with Fall 2026 placements before the end of the current school year in May.

Interested businesses or groups may contact Jennewein at BulldogConvenerCouncil@outlook.com or Laker at klaker@batesville.k12.in.us for more information.