R277-915. Work-based Learning Programs, R277. Education, Administration, Utah Administrative Code

Utah Administrative Code (Current through November 1, 2019)

R277. Education, Administration

R277-915. Work-based Learning Programs

R277-915-1. Authority and Purpose

Latest version.

(1) This rule is authorized by:

(a) Utah Constitution Article X, Section 3, which vests general control and supervision over public education in the Board;

(b) Subsection 53E-3-401(4), which allows the Board to make rules to execute the Board's duties and responsibilities under the Utah Constitution and state law; and

(2) The purpose of this rule is to provide standards for WBL programs.

R277-915-2. Definitions

Latest version.

(1) "LEA" includes, for purposes of this rule, the Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind.

(2)(a) "Participant" means a student enrolled in a school-sponsored work experience and career exploration program under Section 53G-7-902 involving both classroom instruction and work experience with a cooperating employer, for which the student may or may not receive compensation.

(b) Participant may include a student completing an apprenticeship.

(3) "School-based enterprise" means a business set up and run by supervised students learning to apply practical skills in the production of goods or services for sale or use by others.

(4) "Work site" or "workplace" means the actual location where employment occurs for a particular occupation, or an environment that simulates all aspects or elements of that employment, including school-based enterprises.

(5) "Work-based learning" or "WBL" means a continuum of awareness, exploration, preparation, and training activities that combine structured learning and authentic work experiences implemented through industry and education partnerships.

R277-915-3. Mandatory LEA Policy

Latest version.

An LEA that has WBL programs that include assigning students to act as participants at off-campus sites or in on-campus simulations shall establish a policy which includes the following:

(1) training for student participants, student participant supervisors, and cooperating employers regarding health hazards and safety procedures in the workplace;

(2) standards and procedures for approval of off-campus work sites;

(3) transportation options for students to and from the work site;

(4) appropriate supervision by employers at the work site;

(5) adequate insurance coverage provided and identified either by the student, the program, or the LEA;

(6) appropriate supervision and assessment of the student by the LEA;

(7) appropriate involvement and approval by the student's parents in the WBL program;

(8) provision for risk or liability inherent in the WBL program developed in consultation with State Risk Management or the LEA's insurance provider; and

(9) a requirement that any WBL credit awarded maintains the integrity and rigor expected for high school graduation, as determined by the Board.

R277-915-4. Disbursement of Funds

Latest version.

(1) The Superintendent shall align public elementary, secondary, and postsecondary or adult schools by LEA.

(2) The proportion of total WBL funding allocated for a participating LEA shall remain the same as the previous year unless:

(a) the LEA discontinues the program;

(b) the LEA does not meet program standards; or

(3) A participating LEA shall provide an equal match in funds to state appropriated WBL funds.

R277-915-5. Standards

Latest version.

(1) WBL shall be integrated into all levels of the educational delivery system and shall be coordinated within the LEA and among regions.

(2) To be eligible for WBL funds, an LEA shall:

(a) have the program approved by the LEA board;

(b) employ licensed WBL coordination personnel with salaries and benefits matched by the local recipient of funds;

(i) has been created;

(ii) is functioning effectively; and

(iii) regularly addresses WBL issues;

(d) conduct WBL activities utilizing information from:

(i) business and industry;

(ii) administrators;

(iii) teachers;

(iv) counselors;

(v) parents; and

(vi) students;

(e) develop work-based preparation, participation, and assessment activities for students and teachers involved in all WBL LEA activities;

(f) maintain evidence that WBL components have been integrated and coordinated with:

(i) elementary career awareness;

(ii) secondary career exploration;

(iii) integrated core activities;

(iv) College and Career Awareness; and

(v) comprehensive guidance and counseling;

(g) maintain evidence of WBL activities and assurances in each LEA developed in coordination with a student's:

(i) IEP;

(ii) Plan for College and Career Readiness; and

(iii) 504 requirements;

(h) require the inclusion of all student groups within the LEA in career development and preparation;

(i) demonstrate WBL coordination with employers and with other school and community development activities.

(j) verify that sufficient budget for a WBL coordinator, facilities, materials, equipment, and support staff is available;

(k) participate in initial state-sponsored WBL coordinated professional development and in periodic ongoing coordination and professional development activities;

(l) require that the WBL team utilize a database system developed by the LEA for the LEA's specific needs; and

(m) participate in the CTE Program Approval evaluation every three years.

R277-915-6. Consistency with Law and State and LEA Board Rules and Policies

Latest version.

(1) A WBL experience shall be consistent with the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act, 29 U.S.C. Sec. 201, et seq.

(2) WBL programs shall operate consistently with Board rules and LEA polices, including:

(a) student transportation;

(b) credit toward graduation;

(d) fee waivers.