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Sponsored by East Baton Rouge Parish School System
In today’s rapidly evolving economy, the alignment of education with workforce needs is more critical than ever. The East Baton Rouge Parish School System has taken a significant step in ensuring that students are not just academically prepared but also workforce-ready through its Learn and Earn Internship Program. This initiative, in partnership with the Baton Rouge Area Chamber and the local business community, offers rising seniors a transformative experience that combines classroom instruction with hands-on industry exposure.
The Learn and Earn Internship Program allows businesses to play a direct role in shaping
the next generation of professionals by steering education towards specific industry requirements. At the same time, it provides students with meaningful workplace experiences, fostering a pipeline of skilled workers who are well-prepared to transition into the workforce upon graduation. Participating companies include Woman’s Hospital, Associated Grocers, Ochsner, Baton Rouge General, Entergy, Raising Cane’s, BRECO Federal Credit Union, along with many more.
The program follows a structured model designed to maximize student engagement and professional growth. Components include:
- Classroom Instruction: The internship begins with preparatory coursework aligned with state and industry standards. This ensures that students have a foundational understanding before entering the workplace.
- Hands-On Work Experience: Interns report to their respective worksites, where they apply the knowledge and skills acquired in the classroom. Their daily tasks are guided by a tailored individual training plan, allowing them to gain practical exposure in their chosen industry.
- Capstone Project and Culmination: At the end of the internship, students return to the classroom to reflect on their experiences and present a capstone project, summarizing the skills and insights gained throughout the program.
This program is a win-win for all stakeholders involved—students, businesses and the
broader Baton Rouge community, says Amber Boyd, executive director of Workforce Development for the East Baton Rouge Parish School System. Below, she shares just a few of the benefits.
For students:
- Provides a genuine workplace learning experience
- Creates a clear connection between education and career pathways
- Encourages career exploration and informed decision-making
- Enhances technical and professional skills
- Promotes positive work habits and ethics
For businesses:
- Access to early workforce candidates
- Opportunity to train and mentor potential future employees
- Strengthens ties between industry and education
- Helps retain talent within the Baton Rouge region
For the community:
- Supports workforce development and economic growth
- Encourages student retention and graduation rates
- Builds a skilled, job-ready workforce
- Ensure students graduate with a DIPLOMA+
Jamarcus Ginn, a student at Istrouma High School, shares, “My internship with BRPD has been an incredibly rewarding experience. It has provided me with valuable insights into leadership and the proper execution of responsibilities. The program is well-structured and highly beneficial, offering an opportunity for hands-on learning. The supportive and inspiring environment made the experience even more enriching, and I truly appreciated the guidance of those around me. Overall, it was an excellent opportunity to grow and learn.”
By providing hands-on work experience, bridging the gap between education and industry, and fostering meaningful partnerships, the Learn and Earn Internship Program is shaping the future of Baton Rouge’s workforce. As businesses continue to invest in local talent, students gain invaluable skills and connections that will serve them well beyond their high school years.
Sign up online to participate as a business in the Learn and Earn Program for Summer 2025 or Fall/Spring 2025-26.
