Empowering Students to Create Strong, Healthy Communities

Work-based learning helps students connect classroom learning to real-world experiences while building the skills and professional experience that employers increasingly look for when hiring.

Too many students face barriers to accessing these opportunities. This spring, we partnered with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona (Arizona Blue) and the Agua Fria Union High School District to pilot an innovative work-based learning model that brings career-connected learning directly to students and communities.

Agua Fria students pursuing pathways ranging from marketing to medical assisting helped plan, implement, and participate in a community health fair alongside Arizona Blue mentors and industry professionals. Through the experience, they applied classroom learning in a real-world setting while gaining exposure to healthcare careers and workplace expectations.

But, the impact extended beyond students. Community members were able to access free health screenings, resources, and information.

What’s Next

Next, we’re developing a playbook to help schools, employers, and communities bring this model to their communities, expanding career-connected learning opportunities and strengthening pathways to in-demand careers across Arizona.