Batavia High School Course Syllabus
Field Experience — Work-Based Learning
Course Name
Field Experience (Work-Based Learning)
Teacher
Michael Theriault
michael.theriault@bps101.net
michael.theriault@bps101.net
Course Description
A work-based learning course where students complete a supervised 60-hour placement with a local business or organization aligned to one of seven career clusters. Before placement, students complete a hands-on bootcamp covering professional identity, interview preparation, and workplace readiness. The course emphasizes the Illinois Essential Employability Skills, real-world application of classroom learning, and career exploration through direct workplace experience.
Required Materials
Reliable transportation to/from your placement site, laptop/Chromebook access for weekly logs & reflections, professional attire appropriate to your placement (varies by site), and a fully signed Training Agreement on file before Day 1.
Prerequisite
Junior or Senior standing, teacher/counselor approval, and a completed application and interview process.
Website Information
fieldexperiencebps101.net — student portal for bootcamp, weekly hours log, weekly reflection, and dashboard.
Course Fee
None
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Grading / Assessments
Types of assessments: Bootcamp deliverables (resume, self-assessments, mock interview, checklists), weekly hours logs, weekly reflections, employer observation/evaluation, capstone presentation.
Special Course Policies
A fully signed Training Agreement (student, parent/guardian, employer, and school coordinator) must be on file before a student's first day at their placement — no exceptions. Placement performance or conduct violations are addressed per the Training Agreement and may result in removal from the program.
📄 View the Training Agreement (Google Doc)
BPS Homework Policy
6:290 — policy.bps101.net
BPS Grading Policy
6:280 — policy.bps101.net
BHS Academic Dishonesty Policy
Standard BHS Academic Dishonesty Policy applies to all bootcamp deliverables and reflections.
Essential Learnings / Units
- Phase 1 — Professional Identity & Course Launch
- Phase 2 — Interview Prep
- Phase 3 — Workplace Readiness
- Phase 4 — Launch
- The Placement — 60 Hours in the Field
- The Capstone — Booth Presentation & Stage Talk
Learner Profile / BARK Chart
While students are graded on their academic achievement, students and parents also receive feedback on classroom and workplace behaviors and responsibility. While these behaviors are not directly graded, we believe constructive feedback should be given — both in the classroom and from your placement supervisor.
Extra Learning & Help Opportunities
Students can always come in before or after school for extra help with bootcamp deliverables, resume feedback, or interview practice. Communicate with your teacher to find a time that works for both of you.
Student Expectations for This Course
Treat your placement like a real job from Day 1 — punctuality, professional conduct, and follow-through matter as much there as any grade does here. Complete your weekly hours log and reflection on time every week. Communicate proactively with your teacher about scheduling conflicts, concerns, or issues at your placement — don't wait until it's a problem.
Characteristics of Successful Students in This Course
Reliable — shows up on time, every time. Communicates proactively rather than waiting to be asked. Takes initiative at their placement instead of waiting for direction. Treats feedback as a growth tool, not criticism. Takes ownership of their own professional appearance and conduct.
Teacher Expectations for This Course
I will help you find and succeed in a placement that fits your interests, and prepare you to walk in on Day 1 ready to perform like an employee, not just a visitor. I'll challenge you to take this seriously — because employers, your placement supervisor, and your future self will.
Remediation Statement
A missed weekly hours log or reflection can be made up before the next submission window opens — talk to your teacher as soon as you realize you've missed one. Incomplete bootcamp deliverables can be resubmitted for credit. Placement performance concerns are addressed through direct communication with the employer and an improvement plan, per the Training Agreement — not through grade remediation alone.