Southeast Iowa Intermediary Link
Linking education to careers
The Southeast Iowa Intermediary Link is funded through an Iowa legislature grant.
We serve 14 area school districts in the counties of Des Moines, Lee, Louisa and
Henry. The purpose of the program is to link businesses with K-12 educators and students
to provide quality work-based learning opportunities. These opportunities include
worksite tours, classroom speakers, career events, job shadows, internship, pre-apprenticeship,
and registered apprenticeship opportunities. This also includes skill development
for students, educators and employers.
Work-based learning is a powerful method to introduce K-12 students to the world of
work. Students get real-world examples of how they can use the skills they are learning
today in their adult lives, as well as finding out information about careers they
may not know exist. Through Intermediary Work-Based Learning they also gain exposure
to careers specific to Southeast Iowa.
Educators
Work-based learning experiences go beyond the classroom. Students see value in education when they are given a chance to learn what real careers await them after high school. Opportunities await them through activities such as:
- Job Shadows
- Worksite Tours
- Businessperson classroom visits
- Career events
- Skill development
- Internships
- Apprenticeships
The Intermediary Work Based Learning program also sets up and carries out Educator in the Workplace experiences each summer for licensure credit through Great Prairie AEA.
Students
It’s never too soon to start planning your future. Exploring careers and career options, choosing your career path, creating a plan, and putting the plan into action begins in elementary school and continues through your life. Work-based learning helps you to experience what is out there.
Businesses
Businesses need a workforce that not only has the knowledge and skills learned in the classroom but also the ability to be responsible employees. Providing work-based learning to students helps increase company morale, enhances a company’s image in the community and reduces the cost of recruiting, and training new workers.
Get linked to learn more.
Contact Sarah Smith at ssmith1@scciowa.edu or (319) 208-5053.