John F. Ross CVI Co-Operative Education Program

School to Career Programs provide all students with a series of unique opportunities to learn about the world of work, explore potential careers, and gain valuable work experience. These planned learning experiences assist all students, whether bound for college, apprenticeship, university or the workplace, in making informed career decisions, and in developing the knowledge, skills and attitudes that are essential in today’s society.

How Does Co-op Work?

• The program combines a full semester, half-day work placement in the community with a school-based classroom component (some programs may be “packaged” to offer full day placements).
• A 2 to 3 week classroom component helps students prepare for work through health and safety training,
• self-assessment exercises, and lessons on such topics as resume and interview skills, confidentiality, and employer expectations.
• Students must successfully complete an interview with a community employer prior to placement; competitive interviews may be conducted; students are not guaranteed a specific placement.
• Students return to the classroom on a regular basis to share experiences, develop further skills and present assignments.
• The placement component generally consists of 4 or 5 mornings or afternoons at a community worksite
• The Co-op teacher monitors the work of the student at the placement.
• Regular job performance appraisals are completed by the employer, in conjunction with the teacher.
• Students are not paid while on the job during regular school time but earn credits for their work term.
• Transportation to and from the placement is the responsibility of the student.