Loudoun County Public Schools

Traditionally, students are taught theoretical concepts in hopes they’ll make connections to possible employment paths. However, what happens when a student spends their school years hoping to become a doctor or an astronaut– but realizes halfway through college that conservancy excites them more than physics? Real World Learning (RWL) experiences allow students to try out aspects of their dream jobs while allowing them to pursue other options, helping them to make informed decisions by the time they graduate. 

LCPS is developing a robust network for students, parents, and staff to access RWL opportunities. By increasing teacher awareness about how to promote community partnerships and connections, we can support students to undertake PBL projects, internships, job shadowing, and guest speakers sessions. Through these programs, students develop skills, link curriculum to the professional world, and improve their outcomes.