Are you a junior looking to gain real-world experience in the career field you’re preparing for? If so, the FUSION Co-op Work-Based Learning (WBL) Program at Christian County Public Schools (CCPS) is the perfect opportunity for you! This senior capstone work-based learning program allows students to integrate classroom learning with supervised employment, helping them build valuable skills while earning a paycheck.

What is FUSION Co-op WBL?

The FUSION Co-op is a one-year course designed for senior students, providing them with at least 10 hours of supervised employment per week (a minimum of 350 hours per year) in addition to classroom instruction. Each student’s work experience is tailored to reinforce and expand their Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathway skills, aligning with their Individual Learning Plan (ILP) and the CCPS Profile of a Graduate.

FUSION Co-op WBL Objectives

Students participating in the program will:

• Gain career awareness and test their career choices.
• Integrate classroom studies with practical work experience.
• Work in professional settings with industry-specific facilities and equipment.
• Earn work experience needed for industry certification or End-of-Program Assessments (EOPA).
• Develop key employability skills, such as:
  • Communication and literacy
  • Problem-solving
  • Time management and organization
  • Technology application
  • Professionalism in workplace settings

How to Apply – Deadline: March 7, 2025

Interested students must submit the FUSION Google Participation Form by March 7th of their junior year. For the 2025-26 school year, the application form will be available starting Monday, February 3rd, at 8:30 a.m., and will close on Friday, March 7th, at 3:30 p.m.

Pro Tip: Treat your application like a job application! Spelling, grammar, and attention to detail matter. It is strongly recommended that students do not complete the application on a cell phone. Potential hiring businesses may review the application, so make a great impression!

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the FUSION Co-op WBL Program, students must:

• Be at least 16 years old.
• Have earned at least 2 credits in their CTE pathway by the end of junior year.
• Be enrolled in a senior-year capstone course or have completed 4 courses in their CTE pathway.
• Maintain a 2.5 GPA.
• Demonstrate good conduct and attendance:
  • No more than one Step 4 or 5 behavior incident during junior year.
  • Zero Step 6 or higher behavior incidents on record.
  • No more than three unexcused absences during junior year.
  • Cannot be on the CCPS Chronic Absentee Report.
• Provide their own transportation (CCPS does not provide transportation for work-based learning students).

Important: Students who do not meet all requirements may submit an appeal through their high school and the district WBL team. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, APPLY ANYWAY! There is a structured appeals process in place.

Mandatory Co-op Seminars

Once accepted, students must attend required Co-op Seminars, where they will review paperwork and submit a polished resume.

• Hopkinsville High School:
  Wednesday, April 9, 2025 | 8:30 – 11:00 a.m. | HHS Co-op Seminar
• Christian County High School:
  Thursday, April 10, 2025 | 8:30 – 11:00 a.m. | CCHS Co-op Seminar

Why Join FUSION Co-op WBL?

Participating in FUSION Co-op WBL is a unique opportunity for seniors to develop their 21st Century Skills while gaining real-world experience. One of the key goals of the program is to teach students workplace independence, including professional communication and self-advocacy. By taking part in this experience, students prepare for life beyond high school, whether entering the workforce, attending college, or pursuing other career opportunities.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Have Questions?

For more information, contact:

📧 Kelly L. Gates – Workforce Program Specialist
📍 Email: Kelly.Gates@christian.kyschools.us
📍 Phone: (270) 887-7000

Stay tuned for school announcements and updates via email and ParentSquare, as communication throughout the school year and summer is mandatory for participation in WBL.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity—apply by March 7th and take the next step in your career journey!