For 22 New Glarus High School students this year, part of the school day is taking place somewhere other than a classroom. They are working in hospitals and clinics, banks, farms, veterinary offices, construction trades, automotive shops and other workplaces through the school’s growing Youth Apprenticeship program.

The program allows juniors and seniors to earn high school credit while gaining paid work experience in a career area that interests them. Participation has grown from 13 students last year to 22 this year, according to Erin Speth, who coordinates the student side of Youth Apprenticeship at New Glarus High School.

“Youth Apprenticeship gives students a chance to experience a career before they commit to it,” Speth said. “They can discover that they love a career they’re considering or realize it isn’t the right fit. Either way, that experience can help them make more informed decisions about their future.”

At New Glarus, Speth works with students and families as they navigate the program, find opportunities and meet its requirements. The district also works with Ned Lease, the Youth Apprenticeship coordinator at CESA 3, who works more directly with employers. Speth said the two roles are designed to support both sides of the apprenticeship experience.