High School Students Gain Work Experience Before Graduation

In a progressive move aimed at adapting to the changing landscape of education and employment, students at Upton High School in Wyoming are gaining valuable work experience alongside their academic studies. This innovative approach allows students to secure job placements before graduation, helping them to prepare for various post-graduation paths, including college, careers, or military service.

Upton High School has implemented a personalized learning model that encourages students to explore their interests while fulfilling academic requirements. For instance, Joslyn Pischke, a 15-year-old sophomore, is pursuing her passion for equine science while her classmate, Sam Johnson, plans to become a full-time hunting guide immediately after graduation. The school’s guidance counselor, Amanda Knapp, plays a crucial role in facilitating such opportunities, tailoring schedules to fit individual aspirations.

Knapp arranged an apprenticeship for Johnson, ensuring he has secured a position in his desired field upon graduation. Meanwhile, Pischke was allowed time off from school to compete in rodeo events, reflecting the school’s commitment to supporting diverse career paths. This hands-on experience is a fundamental aspect of Upton’s mission to equip students for life after high school.

Educational Shift Reflects Changing Job Market

The approach taken by Upton High School is emblematic of a broader shift in the perception of higher education among Generation Z. Increasingly, young Americans are opting for alternatives to the traditional four-year college experience, such as trade schools or direct entry into the workforce. The rising costs of college tuition and student debt have influenced these decisions, prompting a reevaluation of educational priorities.

According to Knapp, the focus at Upton is not solely on academic content but also on equipping students with essential employability skills. “We do a really good job of working on those employability skills that they need,” she explained. Students learn not only how to excel in their studies but also how to become responsible employees and good citizens.

The success stories of Upton graduates illustrate the effectiveness of this model. Sophie Louderbeck, who graduated in 2024, is currently studying elementary education at Black Hills State University. She credits Knapp with facilitating her work-study program at a daycare, which provided her with valuable experience and skills before entering university. “I’m ready to go with my work experience,” Louderbeck stated, highlighting the practical benefits of her high school education.

Creating a Competitive Advantage

The personalized learning approach at Upton High School not only allows students to pursue their interests but also fosters independence and responsibility. Superintendent Clark Coberly emphasized the importance of this model, which encourages students to communicate their career aspirations directly to their teachers. “If they have more agency in their learning, they also have more agency and ownership in their life,” he noted.

As the job market evolves, many states are eliminating college degree requirements for various positions. This trend is further supported by federal initiatives promoting trade schools and alternative career paths. Knapp acknowledged that while Upton’s approach is effective, larger urban schools might face challenges in implementing personalized learning due to the need for full participation from both teachers and families.

The rural setting of Upton provides a unique advantage, as the smaller community fosters connections within the local agriculture industry, facilitating job placements and apprenticeships. Coberly expressed hope that Upton’s model could inspire similar initiatives nationwide, stating, “This is an advantage for our students, and we want to give our students an advantage in the world.”

As the landscape of education continues to evolve, Upton High School stands as a beacon of innovation, preparing its students for successful futures by prioritizing real-world experience alongside academic achievement.