Approximately 65 Work-Based Learning Coordinators from across Northeast Georgia gathered in Greensboro on September 18 for their quarterly regional meeting, hosted by Lake Oconee Academy, Greene County High School, and Reynolds Lake Oconee.
The meeting highlighted the many career-connected learning experiences available to students in Greene County while giving educators from across the region an opportunity to exchange ideas and strengthen Work-Based Learning programs in their own communities.
Throughout the day, attendees toured several Reynolds Lake Oconee facilities, including the new Baking and Commissary Kitchen, the Creek Club, and the Lake Club Marina. The tours offered coordinators a firsthand look at the diverse career pathways and real-world experiences available to local students through partnerships with area businesses.
Lake Oconee Academy CEO Dr. Brad Bowling welcomed attendees and shared what makes Greensboro a unique place to live, learn, and work. For LOA's Work-Based Learning Coordinators, Jennifer Blythe and Kati Mize, hosting the meeting was an opportunity to showcase not only the community but also the strength of the school's growing Work-Based Learning program.
"We love showing coordinators across our region the amazing opportunities our students have here," said Blythe. "Our little slice of heaven here in Greensboro allows our students chances and connections that not many students in Georgia get."
Over the past decade, LOA's Work-Based Learning program has grown from just 24 students to approximately 70 students, connecting high school learners with meaningful workplace experiences that help prepare them for college, careers, and life beyond graduation.
For LOA students, those experiences offer an opportunity to apply what they are learning in the classroom to real-world situations. Joselyn Arriaza, an 11th-grade student who participates in Work-Based Learning, said she would highly recommend the program to others.
"Working at one of the restaurants at Reynolds Lake Oconee has given me so much real-life experience. It's taught me through experience I couldn't get in class alone," said Arriaza.
Experiences like Arriaza's are made possible through partnerships with businesses that invest in the next generation. Reynolds Lake Oconee sponsored breakfast pastries and lunch for conference attendees, with lunch prepared by Iron Fork Café, an advisory committee member and longtime Work-Based Learning partner that employs Lake Oconee Academy students each year.
Conference attendees also received welcome gift bags featuring Be Our Guest cards generously donated by Chick-fil-A Lake Oconee and $10 gift certificates from Empire South, two additional business partners that employ LOA Work-Based Learning students and continue to invest in their growth and success.
As Work-Based Learning continues to expand, Lake Oconee Academy remains committed to connecting classroom learning with real-world experience. Through these partnerships, students gain not only academic knowledge but also the professional skills, confidence, and firsthand workplace experience that can help them take their next steps after graduation.