Work Based Learning
Work Based Learning gives students an opportunity to bring relevance to learning, explore career possibilities, and make informed decisions about their future career.
As part of the District Plan, all Hamilton students will graduate with career and life skills necessary to be informed consumers, skillful and productive workers, and active citizens.
Work Based Learning will develop and implement business partnerships offering Hamilton Community Schools students opportunities for real-world career explanation and skill building.
After approval from the Board of Education, 2027 Hamilton Community Schools graduates will be based on high school class credit and experiences. From fifth grade through senior year, all students will be exposed to Work Based Learning.
Additional information about Work Based Learning and answers to frequently asked questions.
A list of terms related to Work Based Learning and a description of what they mean.
Naviance is a platform that Hamilton uses for EDP completion, requesting transcripts, getting letters of recommendations, searching for colleges, applying to colleges, creating resumes, and completing reflections as it relates to Work Based Learning Experiences. An EDP is a series of tasks and activities, a portfolio of experiences, assessments, and goals related to a student's interests, abilities, and future plans.
An interactive list of all Work Based Learning opportunities for Hamilton Community Schools students.
Work Based Learning Stories
At Hamilton High School, Ms. Mackenzie Westra’s Daily Living Skills class has launched a creative initiative that not only spreads joy to teachers but also helps students practice essential life skills. The newly introduced “Teacher Treat Cart” is a fun, hands-on experience where students learn money management, customer service, and social interaction—all while brightening the day of their educators.
The idea for the treat cart was inspired by Hamilton High School principal Mr. Mitch Bosch and assistant principal, Mr. David Shepard, who suggested it as a way to show appreciation for teachers while also reinforcing work-based learning skills for students. “We focus a lot on work-based learning skills and skills that are going to help our students in the long run, outside of high school and outside of Hamilton,” Ms. Westra explained.
Roughly every month, teachers receive $5 in fake "monopoly money" in their mailboxes, which they can use to purchase snacks and drinks like candy bars, chips, beef jerky, soda, coffee, and water when the treat cart makes its rounds. The experience provides a real-world lesson in financial literacy, as students must count money, add up totals, and determine whether change is needed.
“It’s just been an overwhelming excitement from all the teachers in the building and staff, and our kids love doing it,” Ms. Westra said. Senior Ben Popma added, "I like doing this, I like doing the math.” Fellow senior Serenity Smith-Jackson mentioned, “In the future, you have to learn how to count money and do financial stuff, like budgeting and working a cash register at a job.”
Beyond running the cart, students also help manage inventory, learning how to restock, face shelves, and track supplies. They even take trips to Sam’s Club or Meijer to shop for more items, making the experience even more immersive.
For teachers, the treat cart is more than just a snack stop—it’s a moment of appreciation. “I’m excited because we get to make the teachers smile,” said sophomore Charlee Hoover. “It makes me happy that we can make their day and make them feel special because they do things for us.”
The Teacher Treat Cart has quickly become one of the favorite days for many at Hamilton High School, blending practical learning with a culture of kindness.
Work Based Learning Contacts
Ashley Meyer
Work Based Learning/Experiential Learning Coordinator
ameyer@hamiltonschools.us
Mrs. Meyer can answer questions about business and community partnerships, district Work Based Learning opportunities and WBL curriculum.
Madeline Gentile
Business Department Teacher & Work Based Learning Advisor
mgentile@hamiltonschools.us
Mrs. Gentile can answer questions about Co-op, high school Work Based Learning opportunities, and Work Based Learning graduation requirements.
Mat Rehkopf
Director of Career, College & Innovative Programs
mlrehkop@hamiltonschools.us
Mr. Rehkopf can answer questions about curriculum.
Hamilton High School’s ‘Teacher Treat Cart’ Brings Sweet Surprises and Life Skills March 4, 2025
Ms. Westra's class provides smiles for teachers while preparing for their future
Hamilton High School 9th graders learn Financial Literacy skills through JA of Michigan Great Lakes February 27, 2025
Financial Simulation helps students learn about mortgages, taxes, bills, and much more!
The revival of the Hamilton Middle School Greenhouse provides unique learning experience for students February 6, 2025
How Mr. Hickok and the HMS staff is utilizing the Greenhouse for fun and engaging STEM activities!
