St. Mary's County
Public Schools
Incentives and Value Added Opportunities
Work-Based Learning
The Work-Based Learning programs are designed to help the students bridge the gap between high
school and the world of work. Students participate in supervised on-the-job training at approved
community work sites. To qualify for the program, students must have completed two (2) credits in an
approved Career and Technology Education program. Cooperative work experience credit is only
awarded for employment-related to the career cluster in which the student is enrolled. Internships and
job shadowing are two types of work-based learning in which CTE students participate.
Industrial Recognized Credentialing (IRC)
What is an IRC: An industry-recognized credential (IRC) is a formal validation of an individual’s skills and competencies that aligns with the state’s in-demand occupations and is recognized by industry and employers. It includes a certification, license, or other credential, and is obtained through an assessment process, may
be stackable and portable within the industry, and leads to documented positive employment and wage
outcomes. The IRC ensures relevance to the labor market and supports career advancement and
economic development.
