Coop

TEACHERS

Charles Koop

Desire2Learn (D2L) login (click here)

What is Co-operative Education?

Cooperative Education is a planned learning experience, for which credits are earned, that integrates classroom theory and learning experiences at a workplace to enable students to apply and refine the knowledge and skills acquired in a related course. Students are generally out in a workplace for a half day (morning or afternoon) for a whole semester (The first semester is from September to January and the second semester is from February to June). The tasks that are performed at the work site relate to a course that is either being taken presently or in a previous semester. Students will participate in a pre-placement orientation where they will discuss resume writing, interview skills, health and safety before they are able to go to a work site. Students will meet on a monthly basis with the co-op teacher in a group session to reflect on what they are learning at the work site.

Who is involved?

Cooperative Education is a partnership among education and business that involves students, teachers, parents and employers.

Why take Cooperative Education?

To learn the job search process, which includes the skills of application, cover letter and resume writing, preparation for an interview and post interview followup.
To receive on-the-job training in a related subject area
To expand on the skills studied at school in a practical way and use equipment that might not be available in a secondary school
To develop the attitude and skills necessary to work successfully
To identify capabilities, limitations, strengths and future career direction
To become more aware of the demands and responsibilities of employment
To participate in an alternative method of earning credits
To earn hours toward an apprenticeship

How do students get into the program?

Check off co-op on the option sheet that is filled out in February for the next school year Complete the Cooperative Education Application form that is available from the Cooperative Education or Student Services office in the secondary school The co-op teacher will interview the student to discuss the program and determine if a suitable placement can be found that meets the student's academic and career goals

What are the Students Responsible For?

Complete and sign the Student Handbook before going out to the work site

Get immunizations or a police waiver depending on the type of placement and the requirements of the employer
Make transportation arrangements to and from the work site
Attend the work site and the in-school sessions on a regular and punctual basis
Follow the instructions of the Cooperative Education teacher for reporting absences and lates
Complete all assignments and log sheets on a regular basis
Work safely and diligently following all rules
Report any workplace accident immediately to the employer/supervisor AND the Cooperative Education teacher
Dress appropriately for the work site
Represent the school in a positive manner in the community

Please note that failure to return the required forms in the District School Board of Niagara Student Handbook completed and signed according to the timelines established by the school may put the student's credits in jeopardy because the student will NOT be able to start the placement until the forms are on file in the school. This document requires the signatures of the student, parent/guardian, teacher and placement supervisor.