ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
We would like to acknowledge the contributions made by the FLDOE, Steps Manual.
Revised September 2015
DISCLAIMER The intent of this manual is to serve as a general guide for Florida’s Cooperative Education
Programs. If any portions of the document are in conflict with any federal, state or local laws; these laws shall
prevail over the contents of this document.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION 4
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION 5
RESPONSIBILITIES (Employer, Teacher, Student) 6
STUDENT’S GUIDE FOR COOPERATIVE EDUCATION 7
TEACHER’S GUIDE FOR COOPERATIVE EDUCATION 8
EMPLOYER’S GUIDE FOR COOPERTIVE EDUCATION 9-12
CHILD LABOR LAWS 13-21
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
22-28
STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
29-31
RESOURCES
32
DISTRICT FORMS
33-40
ORGANIZATIONS (CTSO’S)
41-45
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INTRODUCTION
A high school cooperative (co-op) education program is an academic program that combines
a comprehensive classroom curriculum with work experience in the business community. Co-
op education gives the student a wonderful opportunity to gain professional job experience
related to a career goal. The Florida Department of Education has provided a way for schools
to offer students a variety of exciting and encompassing business-based On-the-Job Training
(OJT) and co-op programs in:
Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources
Architecture & Construction
Arts, A/V Technology & Communication
Business, Management & Administration
Education & Training
Energy
Engineering & Technology Education
Finance
Government & Public Administration
Health Science
Hospitality & Tourism
Human Services
Information Technology
Law, Public Safety & Security
Manufacturing
Marketing, Sales & Service
Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM)
Transportation, Distribution & Logistics
.
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PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
Cooperative Education Model
The cooperative education program model consists of the following components:
• School administrative support
• Guidance counselor support
• A certified teacher/coordinator
• Eligible student learners
• Related classroom instruction
• Supervised on-the-job training (OJT)
• Quality training sites
• Coordination of school-based and work-based learning
• Evaluation and feedback of student’s work progress
• An advisory committee
• Involvement of parent/guardian
The teacher/coordinator is the key to a successful cooperative education program. The role of
this person is complex and involves not only the usual competencies of a standard classroom
teacher, but also requires the insight important to career guidance and the capability for
bringing the business community into cooperative alliance with the school.
The cooperative education program model can be a flexible program with regard to the type of
student enrolled. Because of the diversified nature of placement in an approved training site,
as well as a well-organized business curriculum, students with varied interests may enter this
dynamic program and succeed. Whether the student plans to attend a four-year university, a
career and technical education center, two-year community college, or progress directly into
the world of work, the cooperative education program provides the necessary business
education that will equip any student with important survival skills for the business world.
The Quality On-the-Job Training (OJT) Station
Quality On-the-Job Training stations include the following components:
• Adequate safety instruction
• A challenging job for the student’s ability and purpose
• Work that is related to the student’s career and occupational choice
• Job duties and tasks which develop responsibility
• A sequential order of job mastery skills
• A salary that is paid in conformity with federal and state laws
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RESPONSIBILITIES
Each participant in the cooperative partnership has a responsibility to ensure a unique
learning environment for the student involved in Cooperative Education. The responsibilities
of each participant are:
Employer
• Together with the teacher/coordinator completes a training plan.
• Outlines specific expectations on student dress code, hours of work, etc.
• Provides a meaningful learning experience for the student.
• Provides evaluation of the student as agreed upon with the teacher/coordinator.
• Provides a safe and hazard-free environment which includes safety training for the student.
• Contacts the school if there is an accident.
• Abides by all Federal & State employment regulations including Workman’s
Compensation Laws.
• Adheres to the Child Labor Law as specified by Federal and State law.
• Responsible for drug/alcohol testing according to their business policies and procedures.
• Communicates with the teacher/coordinator regarding progress, problems, etc.
• Helps the student to become an integral part of the work team.
Teacher
• Conducts an orientation (or interview) for students prior to participation in the course to ensure
that the student is suitable for the program, fully understands the program, and can meet the
responsibilities expected of the program.
• Meets with the employer supervisor in order to develop a Training Plan that will ensure
relevance of work experience.
• Coordinates placement of student at the appropriate job site.
• Provides evaluation procedures for the supervisor.
• Visits each student on a regular basis.
• Evaluates the student and assigns the grade for credit purposes.
Student
• Sign and abide by the required agreements and forms (Student/Parent Agreement, Employer’s
Agreement, time card, insurance and emergency information).
• Maintain accurate records of hours worked and earnings.
• Demonstrate the employability skills essential for success on the job.
• Follow all safety rules and instructions.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the Child Labor Laws.
• Discuss any problem that occurs with the teacher/coordinator.
• Be a positive representative of the school and community.
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The Student’s Guide for Cooperative Education Programs
Who can enroll in a cooperative education program?
Students seeking enrollment in a cooperative education program generally fall into the following
categories:
• Students who have specific career objectives and desire a “work experience” in that field
• Students who want to gain experience in a specific field but who remain undecided regarding a
career choice. There are OJT options available for each career cluster.
• Students who have a need for financial assistance
What are the responsibilities of the student?
• Signing and abiding by required agreements and forms (training agreement, training plan,
insurance and emergency information, etc.)
• Maintaining accurate records of hours worked and earnings
• Demonstrating the employability skills essential for success on the job
• Following safety rules and instructions
• Demonstrating an understanding of the Child Labor Laws
• Discussing any employment-related problem that occurs with the teacher/coordinator
• Being a positive representative of the school, the community, and the *career and technical
student organization (CTSO) when provided.
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The Teacher’s Guide for Cooperative Education Programs
The cooperative OJT program’s curriculum frameworks serve as a general teacher’s guide and
can be obtained by downloading the frameworks from the Florida Department of Education's web
site http://www.fldoe.org/workforce/dwdframe/. There is an OJT framework for each of the 17
career clusters. FTE OJT reporting rules and processes can be find below.
**Please make note that it is of the upmost importance to keep all documentation in a safe
location for retrieval, ensure all documents are signed and dated appropriately, maintain job
search forms, and all of the criteria for students to participate in the OJT course including
compensation for employment.
The following is a sample job description for a Cooperative Education Teacher.
Facilitate classroom learning activities for students
• Teach the necessary competencies/skills outlined in the Standards and Benchmarks listed
in the Curriculum Frameworks from FLDOE. http://www.fldoe.org/workforce/dwdframe/.
• Assist students in the development of training plans that correlate with their OJT activities.
• Oversee the completion of a JOB TRAINING ATTENDANCE RECORD and verify that the
student has worked the required amount of hours.
• Maintain all required documents for the student including such documents as time cards,
attendance, and wage information.
• Determine individual student performance.
• Develop a list of outside stakeholders who could become guest speakers as well as
potential job placements for students.
• Develop a CTSO for your program.
• Engage students in CTSO leadership activities.
• Make fund-raising an integral part of CTSO training.
• Assist students in preparing for CTSO competitive events.
• Prepare students for job-site interviews (mock interviews).
Coordinate on-the-job training activities
• Assist students in obtaining employment prospective training and job placements.
• Secure signatures on required documentation (Training Agreement, Training Plan, Job
Training Attendance Card, and Employee Evaluation).
• Obtain suggestions from training sites for class/lab activities.
• Determine achievement of program/career objectives by students.
• Correlate student performance standards with training site activities.
• Evaluate student progress and on-the-job performance at least once each grading period.
• Identify and recommend members to serve on advisory committees.
• Attend district and/or state workshops, meetings, and seminars.
• Provide information about the program, students, and training procedures to the work-site
supervisors.
• Provide communication between the school and the community.
• Monitor student-learner on-the-job training activities.
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The Employer's Guide for Cooperative Education Programs
Cooperative education programs permit the student to be released from the school campus to
work part-time for an employer. The student will report to the assigned job site, which is
referred to as the student's Training Station. The student/employee represents the school
district at all times and is expected to demonstrate professional qualities of responsibility,
dependability, ethical behavior, and maturity while performing tasks for the employer.
The purpose of cooperative education programs is to provide the student with
competencies developed through paid, supervised on-the-job training related to an
occupational goal.
Statistics show that the cooperative education students 16–18 years of age across the
state of Florida will work an average of 18 to 25 hours per week.
Benefits of cooperative education programs for the employer
• Supplemental workforce
• Companies can hire productive, enthusiastic employees
• Reduce the cost of recruiting students
• Experienced high school graduates
• Enhanced community relationships by Increasing a company's visibility on campus
and in the community
When can the student/employee work?
The employer will set the student/employee’s work schedule according to the student’s school
class schedule and according to their need for workers. Students will be assigned to a school
“cooperative education program” for elective credit(s). For example, a student may be
released towards the end of the school day, such as for school periods 5 and 6, for a
cooperative education job experience. Some school districts may schedule students for
cooperative education job experiences in the morning hours; for example, releasing the
student for cooperative education job experiences for periods 1, 2, and 3 during morning work
hours. Each school district may use different strategies for scheduling students for
cooperative education job experiences.
What about transportation of the student/employee to and from the job?
Many cooperative education programs and school districts have students and parents sign an
agreement or contract stating that they are responsible for their own transportation and are
permitted to travel to and from the Training Station. The employer is not responsible for the
student traveling to and from work.
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Does the student/employee have to be paid?
Students must be compensated for the work that they do. The purpose of cooperative education
programs is to provide the student with competencies developed through, supervised on-the-job
training. The employer is required to follow all state and federal laws that apply to payroll, Social
Security, and federal income tax rules and procedures.
Department of Business and Professional Regulation, Child Labor Program
http://www.myfloridalicense.com/dbpr/reg/childlabor/index.html
If the student is under 18 years of age, Child Labor Laws must be followed. Florida Child
Labor Law Chapter 450, Part I, Florida Statutes
Division of Regulation 1940 N Monroe Street Tallahassee, FL 32399-2212 Phone: 850.488.6603
Fax: 850.921.2124
How does the student/employee keep a record of work hours for the school?
The student will complete a time card document for the school, listing the hours, days, and
weekly/monthly totals for the job. U.S. Department of Labor laws must be followed. The time
card is the official audit record for the school and is an important document needed for
attendance.
This time card must be completed each month by the student (usually on a school district
form). It must be signed by the employer or current supervisor at the Training Station. The
teacher/coordinator must place it in the school audit folder for the student by the end of
each month.
Why is the school’s record of attendance for the student/employee so important?
The student attendance for OJT experience is counted as enrollment for Florida school
attendance payments. Attendance is a very important record for every school, and cooperative
education job experience attendance must be kept accurately and meticulously by the
teacher/coordinator. Audits may occur yearly for these records, and all student time cards must
be kept by the school district for five years. Even though the student is not in the formal
classroom, the student is reporting to his/her Training Station, which is the classroom for on-the-
job training and cooperative education program purposes.
Some school districts may require that a copy of the student's pay voucher be attached to
each time card to verify actual employment of the student. This also lists the student’s
employee number, Social Security number, earnings record, and federal tax records for
school attendance and official audit reports
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What documents does the teacher/coordinator need to have on file for each
cooperative education program student/employee?
• A copy of Florida driver’s license or picture id.
• Copy of job description/duties, job title, name of supervisor(s), job site address/location,
skills to be learned (Student Training Plan)
• Time card (a time card document must be completed by the student for attendance and
school audit reports)
• Training Agreement document signed by the student, parent, employer, school and
teacher/coordinator
Some schools may require an individual school contract that denotes specific policies of
the school district
What is a Training Agreement?
A Training Agreement is a standard form/document used for cooperative education program
purposes. It must be signed by the student, parent, employer, and teacher/coordinator. A copy
is filed with the school, a copy is kept by the employer at the job site, and the parent may
receive a copy. This contract designates the general expectations of the student/employee,
and the responsibilities of the school, the cooperative education teacher/coordinator, and the
employer. However, it does not confer any rights, expressed or implied, to remain as an
employee. Employment is at will and is not for any specific time. Employment may be
terminated at will, with or without prior notice by the employer. The student/employee
may resign for any reason at any time. Some school districts also require that the worker’s
compensation insurance carrier's name and telephone number be listed on this training
agreement. A new training agreement must be completed each time a student/employee is
hired.
Supervised on-the-job training, with a training agreement and an individualized
training plan signed by the student, teacher/coordinator, employer, and
parent/guardian, is required for a cooperative education program student.
What rights does the student/employee have in a cooperative education
program?
The employer may place a student/employee in a particular job description that is within the
scope of his/her technical and academic training. The Training Plan is the document that will
detail the student’s duties, job tasks, skills to be learned, training, and the expected timeline to
be completed. This training plan is completed by the cooperative education
teacher/coordinator in collaboration with the employer for each student. The student will be
asked to review it and to sign it. The student is an employee for the company and is covered
by all state and federal laws; all policies regarding hiring, firing, and termination; and other
procedures in place as any other employee that the employer would hire.
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The student/employee’s Training Plan is to include instructional objectives and a list
of on-the-job and in-school learning experiences.
How does the student/employee receive a grade?
The teacher/coordinator should visit each Training Station at least once during each grading
period. This visit will be to evaluate the student’s progress and to discuss with the supervisor
how the student is meeting the goals listed in the Training Plan. Many teacher/coordinators
will be able to visit the job site of each student/employee two or more times each grading
period. School districts may place varying numbers of cooperative education program
students in cooperative education classes, so the actual class sizes of students may be
greater for some teacher/coordinators. The class size and district/school policies will affect the
teacher/coordinator's ability to visit each job site multiple times during each grading period.
The teacher/coordinator should visit the job site at least once during each grading
period. The cooperative education program student is evaluated each grading period
on: overall job performance; employability skills; mastery and competency of job skills
and duties.
How can a school district or the Department of Education be contacted?
The Florida Department of Education Internet web site has statistics, information about
standards, testing, accountability, program guidelines and frameworks, teacher certification,
scholarships, and legislative changes.
By using the keyword search at the top of the Florida Department of Education home page,
virtually any topic or subject involving Florida School Districts can be found.
http://www.fldoe.org/
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CHILD LABOR LAWS
What Parents and Teens should know about child labor laws – visit the website below
for information.
http://www.myfloridalicense.com/dbpr/reg/childlabor/ChildLaborParent.html
WORK PERMITS
"Work Permits" and/or "Working Papers" are not required in Florida and are not issued by
either schools or a governmental agency in Florida. Unfortunately, many popular teen
employers use applications with the request "If you are under 18, can you supply a Work
Permit?" These applications are being used for businesses that have operations in other
states that do require Work Permits. The question is not applicable in Florida.
HOUR LIMITATIONS
There are both state and federal child labor laws regulating the hour limitations of minors.
Employers must observe the stricter provisions when the laws are different. The application
of the stricter portion of both federal and state law is provided below.
Minors 14 and 15: When public school is in session, minors may work a maximum of 3 hours
per day on school days and up to 8 hours per day on Saturday, 8 hours on Sunday and 8
hours on non-school days, when a school day does not follow. Remember these daily times
are options as this age group is able to work only 15 hours per week (seven day period). They
may work between the hours of 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. but may not work during public school
hours.
When school is not in session, 14 and 15 year old minors may work up to 8 hours each day
and 40 hours per week between the hours of 7 a.m. and 9 p.m.
Minors 16 and 17: When public school is in session, minors 16 & 17 may not work before
6:30 a.m. or after 11 p.m. or for more than 8 hours per day, when school is scheduled the
following day, nor during the hours that school is in session. These hour limitations do not
apply on non-school days when a school day does not follow, during non-school weeks, and
during summer vacation. When school does not follow the next day, such as Friday, Saturday,
and other days that precede a holiday, minors 16 and 17 may work until their shift is
completed. Example: A minor begins work on Saturday at 6:00 p.m. and the shift ends at 1:00
a.m. Sunday morning. This is not considered a violation of the regulation that minors may not
work before 6:30 a.m. when school is scheduled the following day, because the minor is
completing his Saturday shift, and not beginning a work shift before 6:30 a.m. on Sunday.
These teens may work no more than 30 hours per week when school is in session.
However, during the summer vacation and non-school weeks they may work unlimited
hours.
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Minors are NOT permitted to work during normal school hours unless they are enrolled in a
school-to-work experience program, career education or other program declared exempt by
the state, or have received a partial waiver.
BREAKS
Minors are not permitted to work more than four hours without a 30-minute, uninterrupted
meal break. This applies throughout the year.
DAYS
Minors are not permitted to work more than six consecutive days in one week. This
applies throughout the year.
EXEMPTIONS
Minors are exempt from the hour limitations of the Child Labor Law if they have been married,
graduated from an accredited high school or hold a high school equivalency diploma, served
in the military, have been authorized by a court order, or been issued a partial waiver by the
public school or the Child Labor Program.
TEEN JOBS AND TRAINING
Department of Economic Opportunity and their listing of One-Stop Centers provide
employment and training services in your community. The site offers tips on preparing for a
job, locating a job and interviewing.
http://www.floridajobs.org/onestop/onestopdir/
TIPS FOR PARENTS
• Take an active role in the employment decisions of your teens.
• Discuss the types of work involved, as well as the training and supervision provided by the
employer.
TIPS FOR TEENS
• Know your rights to a safe and healthful workplace.
• Learn to recognize hazards at work and speak up when you see them.
• Participate in training programs at work or request training if none is offered.
• Use safe work practices.
• Learn where you can get information about child labor laws, health and safety, and your rights.
PROHIBITED OCCUPATIONS
The Florida Child Labor Law, the Florida Rule, and the Federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)
identify many jobs as dangerous to the health and safety of minors. Minors are not permitted to
work in these occupations. No minor under 18 years of age, whether such person’s disabilities of
non-age have been removed, shall be employed or permitted to work in the hazardous
occupations listed below.
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The rules governing hazardous equipment are divided into two groups: one for minors aged 14
and 15 and another for all minors. For an extensive survey of these occupations, you may review
the Florida Child Labor Law, Section 450.061, Florida Statutes, and the Florida Child Labor Rule
61L-2, Florida Administrative Code. You may also access the Federal Child Labor Hazards listings
through the federal web site links. The hazardous occupations are listed below:
OCCUPATIONS PROHIBITED FOR ALL MINORS
• Working in occupations involving explosives or radioactive materials
• Manufacturing brick, tile and like products
• Logging or sawmilling
• Slaughtering, meat packing, processing or rendering of meat
• Mining occupations
• Working on any scaffolding, roofs or ladders above six feet
• Operating power-driven bakery, metal-forming, woodworking, paper product or hoisting
machines
• Wrecking, demolition or excavation
• Operating power-driven meat and vegetable slicing machines
• Operating motor vehicles as drivers or delivery drivers, and serving as outside helpers
• Operating circular saws, band saws and guillotine shears • **Working with electrical apparatus
and wiring • **Working with compressed gases: minors are not allowed to dispense, transport,
service, modify, or alter tanks, cylinders, or other equipment used for storing any inert or
compound gas, including air, which has been compressed to a pressure that exceeds 40
pounds per square inch (p.s.i.), except that minors who are sixteen (16) years of age or older
may fill balloons, and bicycle or car tires (but not truck or heavy Equipment), if given proper
instruction and the tank or cylinder containing the compressed gas is fixed and secure
• **Working in occupations involving toxic substances or corrosives, including pesticides
or herbicides, unless proper field entry time allowances have been followed. • **Firefighting •
**Operating or assisting to operate tractors over 20 PTO horsepower, forklifts,
earthmoving equipment, and harvesting, planting, or plowing machinery or any moving
machinery
• (**) annotates Florida law only
ADDITIONAL OCCUPATIONS PROHIBITED FOR MINORS AGED 14 AND 15
• Operating or assisting to operate power-driven machinery, including all power mowers and
cutters
• Maintaining or repairing an establishment, machinery or equipment
• Working in freezers or meat coolers
• Operating power driven meat or vegetable slicing machines
• Operating motor vehicles, except for scooters, and in some cases, farm tractors
• Manufacturing, mining, or processing occupations, including occupations requiring duties to
be performed in workrooms or workplaces where goods are manufactured, mined or
processed
• Cooking (some exceptions apply) and baking, to include bakery machinery
• Working in all occupations in transportation, warehousing and storage, communications,
construction (except clerical), boiler or engine rooms
• Loading and unloading trucks, railroad cars or conveyors
• Working for public messenger services
• Occupations which involve operating, setting up, adjusting, cleaning, oiling, or repairing
power-driven food slicing machines and grinders, food choppers and cutters, and bakery-type
mixers
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• **Handling certain dangerous animals
• **Spray painting
• **Conducting door-to-door sales, except for some non-profit organizations such as the
Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts, and under close supervision by an adult
WAIVERS OF THE LAW
The Florida Child Labor Law is designed to serve and protect minors and to encourage them
to remain in school. At times, however, some minors feel that the law conflicts with their best
interest or that their life circumstances are such that they need to work. Minors have the right
to request that the Child Labor Office exempt them from parts of the Child Labor Law. Minors
not working in the entertainment industry may apply for waivers through two methods, as
described below.
STUDENTS ENROLLED IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS (K-12)
When minors are enrolled in the public high school system (K-12), either the minor’s public
school superintendent or his/her designee has responsibility for issuing partial waivers.
Schools can waive the Florida Child Labor Laws only when it is in the best interest of the child,
however schools cannot waive federal law. Quite often the responsibility of issuing waivers is
delegated to either the school counselor or a teacher who assists students with work site
learning programs. These are good contacts to find out about obtaining a waiver.
ALL OTHER MINORS
Minors not enrolled in (K-12) public schools, dropouts, students who are home schooled, in
private school, enrolled in an alternative education program (GED), or have been expelled
may apply for a partial waiver from the Child Labor Program. Partial waivers are approved on
a case by case basis when in the best interest of the minor. At the end of this section, you can
download a partial waiver application form.
Minors must meet certain criteria to be considered for a partial waiver. The following
supporting documentation must be submitted, based on the reason they are applying for the
waiver:
COURT ORDER
Documentation includes a copy of the court order that states that the minor must work
and/or pay restitution. If working full time is a condition of probation and not written in a court
order, a letter on letterhead from the parole officer must be submitted.
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FINANCIAL HARDSHIP
This requires that a notarized letter written by an adult family member or adult friend
explaining the financial hardship or proof of current receipt of public assistance must be
submitted. A minor must also submit a withdrawal from school which may be a letter, school
withdrawal form, or a computer printout confirming the minor’s name, withdrawal code, and
withdrawal date.
OTHER HARDSHIP
The supporting documentation must include a letter on letterhead from a doctor, pastor,
school counselor, or other professional familiar with the minor’s hardship, or a notarized
statement from an adult explaining the circumstances or situation. This category is defined as
a life circumstance other than a financial or medical hardship that would place a hardship on
the minor if a waiver was not granted. The minor must also submit a withdrawal from school
which may be a letter, school withdrawal form, or a computer printout confirming the minor's
name, withdrawal code, and withdrawal date.
SCHOOL STATUS:
This category refers to minors not in the public school system. The supporting documentation
is as follows: Private School requires a letter on school letterhead which states that the minor
is enrolled and attending school, and that working additional hours will not jeopardize school
progress. Home School must include a withdrawal from school which may be a letter, school
withdrawal form, computer printout showing name, withdrawal code, and withdrawal date, or
an acknowledgement from the school system acknowledging your intent to establish a home
school program. Additionally, the documentation must contain a notarized statement from the
parent or guardian as to the days and hours the minor receives home school instruction. Adult
Education or GED Prep Classes waiver requests require a withdrawal from school which may
be a letter on school letterhead, a school withdrawal form, or computer printout showing
name, withdrawal code and withdrawal date. An authorization from the public school system
permitting the minor to obtain education through alternative means is also acceptable. The
minor must also submit a letter on letterhead from the adult education school that states the
minor is enrolled, attending, and the hours of attendance. (Example: Monday through Friday,
6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.)
Expulsion requirements for minors who are expelled from school include a copy of the
expulsion letter from the school. The waiver will be for no more than the period of the
expulsion, or one year, whichever occurs first.
MEDICAL HARDSHIP
Supporting documents include a letter on letterhead from a doctor, pastor, school counselor,
or other professional familiar with the minor’s medical hardship, or a notarized statement from
an adult explaining the circumstances or situation. A minor must also submit a withdrawal
from school, which may be a letter, school withdrawal form, or a computer printout showing
the minor's name, withdrawal code and withdrawal date. Minors who have dropped out of
school must qualify based on a financial, medical or other hardship waiver.
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Where can an employer find Internet information regarding Florida’s Child Labor
Laws?
The Child Labor Section enforces the provisions of the Florida Child Labor Laws. The
purpose of the law is to protect the health and welfare of minors in the workplace and
safeguard their education.
A website for Child Labor Laws may be found at:
http://www.myfloridalicense.com/dbpr/reg/childlabor/index.html
This site provides access to the following components:
Employers If you employ minors between the ages of 14 and 17, this section contains
required documents, posters, breaks, and work hour limitations.
Educators Teachers and Administrators can view their responsibilities under the Child
Labor Law.
Parents & Teens Information about work permits, hour limitations, breaks, and waivers of
the law.
Entertainment Industry There are special limitations for minors employed in the
Entertainment Industry.
Prohibited Occupations There are both state and federal laws prohibiting minors
from employment in certain occupations.
Safety Information The workplace can be a dangerous environment for teens. Site
contains information on teen safety and tips for employers.
Enforcement Contacts if you wish to report an alleged violation of the Child Labor Law.
Child Labor Presentations and Training If your business or school would like a member of
our team to train you on the Child Labor Law.
Child Labor Laws Poster Employers who hire minors 14-17 years of age are required to post
the Florida Child Labor Law Poster.
Additional Links for Child Labor Information Learn about various federal agency sites
which cover teen safety and health, and hour and hazardous limitations.
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What are waivers of the Florida Child Labor Law?
"Waivers of the Florida Child Labor Law" is tucked away in the Child Labor Rule, Chapter
61L2.007, FAC
While the Florida Child Labor Law is designed to serve and protect minors and to
encourage them to remain in the K-12 programs, some minors feel that either the law
conflicts with their best interest or that their life circumstances are such that they need to
work. Minors have the right to request they be exempt from parts of the Child Labor Law.
Minors in the entertainment industry are covered separately under different rules enforced
by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, Child Labor Program
How are waivers of the Florida Child Labor Law granted?
Partial waivers are granted on a case-by-case basis, which means that each application is
judged on its own merits. Only when it clearly appears to be in the best interest of the minor will
the waiver be approved.
How may minors apply for waivers?
Minors may apply for waivers through two methods:
Minors enrolled in high school (K-12)
When minors are enrolled in the public high school system (K-12), either the minor’s
public school superintendent or his/her designee has responsibility for issuing partial
waivers.
Schools have the authority to waive Florida Child Labor Laws only when in the
best interest of the minors, but do not have authority to waive Federal law.
Remember too, that employers are required to provide "waivers" of the law to Child Labor
enforcement staff during routine investigations to justify the minor working outside the
normal work hour limitations.
The waiver itself may take several suggested formats:
The district "Work-site Agreement" is the most popular. It should outline the hours the minor
will be at the work site, total hours of work, and other work stipulations. It should be specific
enough to clearly define the Child Labor Laws that are being waived; i.e., working during
normal school hours (minor works from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m.), more than 30 hours per
week (minor approved to work up to a 40-hour work week), working past 11 p.m. (minor may
work until 11:30 p.m.) etc.
Note: All students in an approved work-site relationship, where work-based learning
is conducted at an employer's work-site, should have a "Work-Site Agreement."
A letter from a school official on school letterhead that clearly defines those Florida Child
Labor Laws that are being waived; i.e., working during normal school hours (minor works from
1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m.), more than 30 hours per week (minor approved to work up to a 40-
hour work week), working past 11 p.m. (minor may work until 11:30 p.m.) etc.
19
Note: This is most often used for students who are NOT ENROLLED in work-site
learning experiences. It is recommended that schools establish criteria for approval
that would include student grades, attendance, financial hardship, medical hardship,
or court orders.
Example: A senior student, who has only two classes in the morning and is released
from school at 10:30 a.m., wants to begin work at 11:00 a.m. Based on the criteria
above, the minor may be issued a waiver.
Districts may create their own standardized form (Waiver Application) using established
criteria as outlined in the Rule 61L-2.007(3): School Status; Financial Hardship; Medical
Hardship; Other Hardship; Court Order. These forms should clearly define those Florida Child
Labor Laws that are being waived; i.e., working during normal school hours (minor works from
1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m.), more than 30 hours per week (minor approved to work as many as
40 hours per week), working past 11 p.m. (minor may work until 11:30 p.m.) etc., and be in the
best interest of the minor.
Note: In lieu of a letter, school districts may develop a standardized form that depicts
the criteria used for approval and clearly defines the law to be waived.
Minors not-enrolled in high school (K-12)
Minors who are no longer enrolled in the public high school system of K-12 programs are
required to submit an "Application for Waiver of the Florida Child Labor Law," Form FCL 1002,
and supporting documentation to the Child Labor Section for approval. Minors who fall under
this category include minors enrolled in home school, attending Adult Education or GED
classes, private school, expelled students, and drop outs who have a financial, medical, or
other hardship.
Additional information on obtaining a waiver and/or forms may be obtained through the
Child Labor web site at: http://www.myfloridalicense.com/dbpr/reg/childlabor/index.html
Click on either the “Employers or Parents & Teens section. The explanation of how to apply
for a waiver is explained.
Partial waivers are granted on a case-by-case basis, which means that each application is
judged on its own merits. In order to qualify for a waiver, applicants must demonstrate that
sections of the Child Labor Law need to be waived because of financial hardship, medical
reasons, school status, or a court order. A waiver will be approved only if it is clear that it is
in the best interest of the minor.
20
What are student learner exemptions for hazardous occupations?
In 1996, Senate Bill 2262 amended the Child Labor Statutes by providing "student learner
exemptions" for eight specific hazardous occupations which are prohibited. The State
legislation was very similar to federal changes enacted the same year. Below is the section
of the law that applies to student learner exemptions:
Chapter 450.161 of the Child Labor Law specifically addresses career education
of children and says:
. . . Nothing in this chapter shall prevent minors of any age from receiving career [and technical]
education furnished by the United States, this state, or any county or other political subdivision of this
state and duly approved by the Department of Education or other duly constituted authority, nor any
apprentice indentured under a plan approved by the Division of Jobs and Benefits, or prevent the
employment of any minor 14 years of age or older when such employment is authorized as an integral
part of, or supplement to, such a course in career [and technical] education and is authorized by
regulations of the district school board of the district in which such minor is employed, provided the
employment is in compliance with the provisions of ss. 450.021(4) and 450.061. Exemptions for
the employment of student learners 16 to 18 years of age are provided in s. 450.061.
Such an exemption shall apply when:
• The student learner is enrolled in a youth vocational [career and technical] training
program under a recognized state or local educational authority.
• Such student learner is employed under a written agreement, which provides:
• That the work of the student learner in the occupation declared particularly hazardous
shall be incidental to the training
• That such work shall be intermittent and for short periods of time and under the direct and
close supervision of a qualified and experienced person
• That safety instructions shall be given by the school and correlated by the employer with
On-the-Job Training
• That a schedule of organized and progressive work processes to be performed on the job
shall have been prepared Each such written agreement shall contain the name of the
student learner and shall be signed by the employer, the teacher/coordinator, the principal,
and the parent or legal guardian of the student. Copies of each agreement shall be kept
on file by both the school and the employer.
This exemption for the employment of student learners may be revoked in any
individual situation when it is found that reasonable precautions have not been
observed for the safety of minors employed there under.
A high school graduate may be employed in an occupation in which he or she has
completed training as a student learner, as provided in this section, even though he
or she is not yet 18 years of age.
21
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS-(FAQS)
What is a cooperative education program?
A cooperative education program is a program with elective classes that permits a student to be
released from the high school campus to work part-time in a job. It is truly “cooperative” because
four contractual parties are responsible for the success of the program and must sign an
agreement: the school and the teacher/coordinator, the employer, the parent/guardian, and the
student. The student must be compensated for work performed while in a cooperative education
program.
What are the benefits of cooperative education programs?
The benefits of cooperative education programs are: elective high school credit(s), valuable
experience in the workplace which gives students a head start on their career, employee
training provided by the employer, financial earnings, and freedom and flexibility in the school
day with release time from campus.
Why is the school responsible for students while they are off campus in cooperative
education programs?
Students in a cooperative education program represent their school at all times, even though they
are not on the school campus. Students are expected to demonstrate professional qualities of
responsibility, dependability, ethical behavior, and maturity when they are at their job site.
What is a "Training Station"?
When a student is placed in a cooperative education job experience they are employed in a part-
time job. A "Training Station" is what the job site is called because new skills and job tasks are
learned each day the student is at the part-time job. The job site becomes the “classroom” where
valuable information and skills are learned daily.
What is OJT?
On-the-Job Training (OJT) is a common term that is used for the student’s release time from the
school campus—when a student is authorized to leave school early and report to his/her job site. It
is a component of a cooperative education program that enables students to apply classroom
instruction to actual job experiences. Some schools may require that students have ID cards to
leave campus early each day.
When can the student work?
When the student is hired, the employer will set the work schedule according to the hours the
student is needed at that job site. The student will sign in at the job site as the employer requires.
However, the student must also complete a separate time card for the school listing the hours,
days, weekly totals, and/or monthly totals that were worked. This time card is the official audit
record for the "student grade" at the school. No grade can be given if this time card record is not
completed and on file in the school audit file. The teacher/coordinator will have information and
requirements for the student regarding the completion of this critical document.
22
At what age can a student participate in cooperative education programs?
A student may be enrolled in a cooperative education program while attending a secondary
school. Contact the school Guidance Department to see what cooperative education programs
are offered and what the requirements are for the program. In all school programs, the student,
the teacher/coordinator, and the employer will be required to follow the policies and guidelines of
Child Labor Laws. (See pages 17-25).
FLORIDA’S CHILD LABOR PROGRAM. The Child Labor Program enforces the provisions of
the Florida Child Labor Law. The purpose of the law is to protect the health and welfare of
minors in the workplace and safeguard their education.
http://www.career-connection.org/pdf/work-based/CLL-FAQ.pdf
What documents must be completed to be in a cooperative education program?
The student may be required to provide proof of their Florida Driver’s License and *Social
Security Card. Additionally, the student is required to have a student data sheet or resume, a
copy of their class schedule, a job description, an employer training agreement, and a
cooperative education program student training plan. Some schools also may require that the
student sign a “school contract,” listing the policies and requirements for participating in a
cooperative education program. A new employer training agreement must be completed for
each new job that the student begins while in a cooperative education program. The
teacher/coordinator will have information and specific requirements regarding the completion of
these documents.
Protect Your Social Security Number And Records
Your Social Security number is used to keep a record of your earning. Here are some things
you can do to protect your earnings record and to make sure that it is accurate:
• Keep your number and card in a safe place to prevent theft.
• Show your card to your employer voluntarily when you start a job so that your records are
correct. Don’t rely on your memory.
• Check your name, address, and Social Security number on your pay stub and W-2 Form to
make sure this information is correct.
• Notify the Social Security Administration when you have a name change.
• For further questions you may have about Social Security, call the toll free number at 1800-
772-1213 or visit their website at www.ssa.gov.
23
Giving Your Social Security Number To Others
If a business or other enterprise asks you for your Social Security number, you may refuse to
give it to them. However, that may mean doing without the purchase or service for which your
Social Security number was requested.
Employers are required by law to obtain your Social Security number in order for you to be
employed. Giving your number is voluntary, even when you are asked for the number directly.
If requested, you should ask:
• why your number is needed,
• how your number will be used,
• what happens if you refuse, and
• what law requires you to give your number.
The answer to these questions can help you decide if you want to give your Social Security
number. The decision is yours. The primary message is this – be careful with your Social Security
number and your card to prevent misuse. If you think someone is misusing your number, notify
the Social Security Administration at the toll free number 1-800-772-1213. Or contact them thru
their website: http://www.ssa.gov/
What is a “Training Plan”?
The “training plan” is an individual plan for each student’s job--and needs to include instructional
objectives and a list of on-the-job and in-school learning experiences. The workstation should
reflect equipment, skills, and tasks relevant to the occupation the student has chosen as a career
goal.
What should be done to change jobs?
Check with the teacher/coordinator regarding specific requirements for changing jobs while in a
cooperative education program. However, the general rule is that if the student changes jobs,
they should give a minimum of one week's notice in writing to their supervisor at their job, with a
copy to their teacher/coordinator for the student's audit file. A new employer training agreement
will need to be completed for each new job that the student begins while in a cooperative
education program.
Why must the student attend classes while in a cooperative education program?
When the student enrolls in a cooperative education program, the guidance counselor will
provide them with the information regarding classroom requirements. The student will be
assigned a teacher/coordinator for the cooperative education program. Each
teacher/coordinator will have informational handouts that will list requirements for classroom
attendance for success in the program. The general rule is that the student receives one hour
of classroom credit for each hour of work . Some counties use between 135 to 150 hours =
one credit.
24
What opportunities are there to join a CTSO?
See the section on CTSO’S pages 55-59
In the state of Florida, career and technical programs suggest that students participate in a
“career and technical student organization” (CTSO) which allows them to learn new skills and
provides them with leadership opportunities. Each teacher/coordinator will have informational
handouts about the *career and technical student organization(s) available.
*“A career and technical student organization is appropriate for providing leadership training and
for reinforcing specific career and technical skills. Career and technical student organizations,
when provided, shall be an integral part of the career and technical instructional program, and
the activities of such organizations are defined as part of the curriculum in accordance with Rule
6A-6.065 (8), FAC.”
How do students apply for a cooperative education program with an OJT component?
Students should contact their guidance counselor, the administrator at the school, or the
cooperative education program teacher/coordinator for information about cooperative education
programs. There may be an application process involved, depending upon local school district
policies.
Does the student need a certain GPA to get into a cooperative education program? In
most cooperative education programs, there is no minimum GPA requirement. However, some
districts use a 2.0 GPA since that is what is needed for graduation. It is best to ask the guidance
counselor or the teacher/coordinator at the school about this.
Are there any other requirements?
Requirements will vary depending upon local school district and/or school board policies. Ask
your guidance counselor, administrator, or teacher/coordinator at the school about additional
requirements.
Does a student get school credit for OJT experiences?
Yes.
How many credits can be earned?
The number of credits depends upon the number of periods the student enrolls in for the OJT
experience(s).
How early can the student leave the school?
The number of credits the student takes will determine the leave time. The ability to leave at a
specified time will be determined by the guidance counselor and the teacher/coordinator after
they review the student's scheduling needs for the year.
25
Do students have to find their own jobs?
Ideally, the purpose of a cooperative education program is to encourage the student to work in a
career goal environment (which includes job searches). Job sites that are approved by the
cooperative education program teacher/coordinator and the parent, are acceptable for the
student.
Will the cooperative education program teacher/coordinator help the student find a job
related to their career goals?
Yes. However, there is no guarantee that there will be a successful match based on local job
opportunities.
Do students need to have a car?
It would be helpful. Cooperative education program students should leave campus promptly
and have the ability to get to work on time, without having to rely upon rides from friends or
family.
How are students graded for OJT credits?
The cooperative education program teacher/coordinator will visit the student at the job site and
will request an employer evaluation. Students will also record the hours they work on a time
card, which must be signed by the employer. Specific grading policies will differ from program to
program. Students should check with their teacher/coordinator for precise grading procedures.
What if a student gets “fired” or “terminated” from their job?
There is a difference between being “fired” and being “terminated” because the employer’s
business is experiencing a period of decline. In most cases, if the student is "fired" from their
job and the teacher/coordinator agrees with this action, they would possibly fail all the OJT
credits related to that job. If the student is "terminated" due to a slow period, they must seek
employment immediately at another job site. School policies may differ so it is best to ask the
cooperative education program teacher/coordinator at the school for exact guidelines and
requirements.
How many hours do students have to work to earn one credit?
Although hour requirements differ from school district to school district, most cooperative
education programs require students to work a minimum number of hours for each credit of
work-site experience. School policies may differ so it is best to ask the cooperative education
program teacher/coordinator at the school for exact guidelines and requirements. An example
would be: Marion County Schools uses 135 hours of work = 1 credit. Manatee county uses 150
hours of work = 1 credit.
26
Can students work over 30 hours per week?
If the student is under 18 years of age and attends high school, they may NOT work over 30
hours (CHILD LABOR LAWS). If the student is over 18 years of age, and is attending high
school, it is highly recommended that they NOT work over 30 hours per week because of the
academic demands on the their schedule.
Do students have to get "dressed up" for work?
The manner of dress depends upon the specific type of environment. Each job has its own
dress code requirements. Each student is expected to abide by the policies of the employer.
Does attendance count?
Attendance policies will vary from school district to school district. In most cooperative
education programs, good attendance will help the student's grade. In some school districts, if
classroom attendance is poor, the student might be removed from all work site experiences. If
attendance is poor at work, the employer’s grade for the student will be reflected automatically.
Check with the cooperative education program teacher/coordinator regarding attendance
policies and any related district guidelines.
What leadership activities are offered?
Cooperative education program students are encouraged to join a career and technical student
organization (CTSO) when provided. CTSOs offer numerous types of leadership activities
along with community service projects, fund raising events, and competitive business events.
Is a cooperative education program a worthwhile learning experience?
Yes. One of the main objectives of the cooperative education program is to develop caring,
responsible, life-long learners who can demonstrate technical competence, leadership, and
problem-solving skills.
Can students be classified as an “academic college-bound” student and take co-op?
Yes. In fact, some programs/careers now advise and encourage students to volunteer or work
in the field before graduation to gain entry-level skills and experience in the college program.
What about scholarship opportunities with the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship
Program?
Yes. The Diversified Education program, like other career and technical education programs, is
eligible for state sponsored scholarships. The courses under this program, excluding the OJT
courses, have been recorded with the Office of Student Financial Assistance and are included in
their on-line databank for scholarship eligibility. Successful completion of 3 credits in diversified
education courses will satisfy one of the eligibility requirements. For complete details about
scholarship eligibility, a visit should be planned to discuss this with the student’s school guidance
counselor.
27
What are the accurate number of weekly work hours that are required of students to
avoid a deficiency when OJT audits are conducted?
The number of work hours during the survey week (the seven days ending on Friday, date
certain for the survey) must cover the number of Class Minutes, Weekly that is funded for the
student. It will, therefore, vary based on the school’s bell schedule, the number of periods
reported for OJT, and the number of other on-site courses taken by the student, as these must
be funded before any OJT.
28
STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
Teachers, counselors, and support staff are responsible for serving all students and for
helping each student reach his or her goals based on individual interests, preferences, and
aptitudes. All students benefit from quality cooperative education program experiences that
provide the opportunity to develop and practice skills that students need to successfully
transition to adult life as productive citizens. However, some students need accommodations,
modifications, special assistance and/or support services to actively participate in and to
benefit from cooperative education programs.
It is important for career and technical education teacher/coordinators to take steps to:
• Connect with special needs personnel to ensure that students' needs are met, leading to
success in the program
• Define roles and responsibilities clearly so that each staff member can contribute to the
program effectiveness based on his or her strengths and experiences
• Ensure that accommodations and special services are provided
Strategies for ensuring that students with special needs succeed in cooperative
education programs include the following:
School district and local school policies/procedures describe how these
programs will include ALL students
Career and technical education teacher/coordinators work closely with
partners serving students with special needs
A variety of instructional materials and adaptive resources are used to meet the
needs of students of varying reading levels, learning styles and native
languages
Instructional materials include examples of individuals employed in
nontraditional careers and are diverse in terms of gender, ethnicity, and
disability
Staff use appropriate "person-first" language in verbal and written
communication/instructional materials (i.e., "student with specific
learning disabilities" instead of "a learning disabled student")
On-campus and off-campus activities include role models representative
of different ethnic groups and disabilities
Fully accessible facilities/work-sites are used for all activities
Accommodations are provided to ensure that students are full participants in
cooperative education program activities (including sign language
interpreters, and assistive technology)
29
Different teaching styles are used to match students' diverse learning
styles Computer aided instruction is used to match students' learning
styles Activities and instruction lead students to their career goals based
on their interests, aptitudes, and preferences Relevant information and
training are provided to appropriate staff (teacher/coordinators, counselors,
etc.)
Strategies for ensuring students with special needs master cooperative
education program competencies include:
Using a multi-sensory approach in all activities to promote active learning
Providing accommodations (including specially prepared materials, interpreters, and assistive
technology) based on individual student needs Providing positive feedback for effort and
accomplishments Using real-life examples that are relevant to students Providing
opportunities for small group activities Using peer tutors (peer mentors or the buddy system)
Using cooperative learning techniques Providing opportunities for practicing new skills in
different situations Helping students feel comfortable asking others for assistance when
needed Using strategies to build each student's confidence and self-esteem Using a variety of
instructional strategies, techniques, and materials Providing professional development
opportunities to staff who work with students
with special needs
Students with Disabilities
Career and technical education teachers are important members of the instructional team for
students with disabilities. There are two populations of students with disabilities. One
population is students with disabilities served through exceptional student education (ESE)
under the requirements of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Students
served in ESE are also protected under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The other population is students with disabilities
protected under Section 504 and ADA but not qualified under IDEA.
30
Students with disabilities in exceptional student education must have an Individual Educational
Plan (IEP), developed and revised annually. The IEP documents the student's present level of
educational performance, goals and objectives or benchmarks, special education and related
services and supplementary aids and services that are needed for the individual student.
Beginning at age 14, certain transition components, such as the diploma decision and course
of study, are addressed in IEPs for students with disabilities. Additional transition services
requirements must be addressed beginning at age 16, which includes determining what
services are needed to assist the student in reaching his or her -measurable postsecondary
goals in the areas of education/training, employment, and independent living, if appropriate.
A 504 or Accommodations Plan is developed for students with disabilities who are
protected under Section 504 (but are not eligible under IDEA). The Accommodations Plan
describes accommodations or services the student needs to succeed.
Supported Competitive Employment
Supported Competitive Employment for Students with Disabilities includes intensive
individual time limited training with a job coach or employment specialist (Phase I) followed
by ongoing support services (Phase II). Supported competitive employment is designed for
persons with significant disabilities who require extended, ongoing support services in order
to maintain employment in the community.
Students from Diverse Cultural Backgrounds
Career and technical education teachers have increasingly important roles in working with
special needs students including students from diverse cultural backgrounds. Cultural
diversities are important factors deserving increased awareness and understanding on the
part of all school personnel. Career and technical education teachers should take action to
assure students of culturally diverse backgrounds access to appropriate services and
cooperative education program opportunities that promote maximum development. It is
important for career and technical education teachers to implement strategies to ensure a
climate that respects diversity and supports student success.
31
Resources
Accommodations, Assisting Students with Disabilities: A Guide for Educators, 1999
(Florida Department of Education, Bureau of Instructional Support and Community
Services)
http://www.fldoe.org/ese/pdf/accomm-educator.pdf
Accommodations and Modifications for Students with Disabilities in Vocational Education
and Adult General Education, 200 (brochure, Florida Department of Education, Division of
Workforce Development, available at http://www.paec.org/fdlrstech/k12_05-59a.pdf
What Parents Need to Know
http://www.fldoe.org/ese/pdf/ac-mod-parents.pdf
District implementation guide for section 504
http://www.fldoe.org/ese/pdf/sect504.pdf
Web Sites
Program Options for Students with Disabilities Career and Technical Education
Program Options for Students with Disabilities Career and Technical Education / What Students
and Families Need to Know
Simply Careers! -Helping Students with Disabilities Effectively Plan Their Futures through
Comprehensive Career Development
http://www.fldoe.org/ese/pubxhome.asp#c
32
COOPERATIVE EDUCATION PROGRAM ON-THE-JOB
TRAINING FORMS
What are the types of forms needed for documentation?
Each district may differ in the format of the documents, but each document suggested helps
in the documentation process. Several documents are required, as stated in the curriculum
frameworks, for cooperative education. These documents are:
• Broward County Parental Authorization (Notarized) Form
• Employment Search Contact Form (During Periods of Student Unemployment) *should not
exceed one month
• Student Training Plan
• Student Training Agreement
• Student Performance Form
• Monthly Time Card (With Signatures)
• Child Labor Law Hazardous Occupation Form
Each district has local policies that determine which forms should be used and retained for
documentation. These forms are samples that can be redesigned and/or used as appropriate
for the district or program.
33
OJT Student Folder Checklist
State and District (FTE Audit) Required Forms:
Broward County Parental Authorization (Notarized) Form
Employment Search Contact Form (During Periods of Student
Unemployment) *should not exceed one month
Student Training Plan
Student Training Agreement
Student Performance Form
Monthly Time Card (With Signatures)
Child Labor Law Hazardous Occupation Form
Recommended Forms:
Student Data Information Form
Current Resume
Graduation Requirements from Virtual Counselor
Student and Parent Agreement
Student Training Plan Worksheet
Copy of Pay Stubs or Paychecks
Map or Detailed Driving Instructions to Employment
Recommended Copies of the Following:
Student’s Driver’s License
Student’s Social Security Card
Student’s Car Insurance Card
Student’s Health Insurance Card
34
Career, Technical, Adult and Community Education
Student Training Agreement
Date
I
intend
to
employ
(First Name) (Middle) (Last Name)
(Address) (City) (Zip)
in the capacity
of
(Duties
of Minor) (Type of Industry)
for _days per week hours per day, between hours of _a.m. p.m.
Name
of
Firm
Address
of
Firm:
EMPLOYER RESPONSIBILITIES: The employer agrees to place the trainee in the work specified above
for the purpose of providing occupational experience of instructional value. The work activity will be
under the supervision of a qualified supervisor. The work will be performed under safe and hazard-
free conditions. The trainee will receive the same consideration given other employees with regard to
safety, health, social security, general work conditions and other policies and procedures of the firm.
The employer will adhere to all State and Federal Regulations regarding employment, Child Labor
Laws, and minimum wage, and will not discriminate in employment policies, educational programs
or activities for reasons of race, sex, color, religion, national origin, marital status, age or handicap.
TEACHER/COORDINATOR RESPONSIBILITIES: The teacher/coordinator agrees to visit each trainee
at the training station no less than one time per grading period and will continue a close working
relationship with the person to whom the trainee is responsible while on the job. The
teacher/coordinator shall attempt to resolve any complaints through the cooperative efforts of all
parties concerned. The teacher/coordinator will meet with the trainee's parents or guardian prior to
job placement and during the school year. The Training Agreement will be kept on file for three (3)
years at the school center.
PARENT/GUARDIAN RESPONSIBILITIES: The parent or guardian agrees that the trainee may
participate in Cooperative Education Training as provided by the public school.
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES: The trainee agrees to follow rules and guidelines established by the
school, employer and teacher/coordinator regarding hours of work, school attendance and procedures.
When absent from school without a valid excuse, the student should not be permitted to work.
WE, THE UNDERSIGNED, have read this Training Agreement and understand the conditions and
provisions contained therein.
Employer Teacher/Coordinator
Student Parent/Guardian
35
36
Career, Technical, Adult and Community Education
Student Training Plan - Sample
The purpose of this program is to provide the student with selected occupational skills through
employment-related instruction and concurrent, paid, supervised on-the-job training. Employment-
related instruction is in-school instruction that includes competencies directly related to the
occupation in which the student is employed. Supervised on-the-job training provides opportunities
for selective placement based on the student's occupational choice, competency development, and
evaluation through planned instructional activities in a job setting.
Clerical Support (Office Assistant) Dictionary of Occupational Titles No. 239.567.010
Performs any combination of the following duties in the business office of a commercial or industrial
establishment:
A. Specific Tasks
Initialed by job-site supervisor when mastered.
Stocks and sorts various clerical supplies as needed
Opens, sorts, and distributes incoming mail
Collects, seals, and stamps outgoing mail
Delivers oral or written messages
Collects and distributes paperwork from one department to another
Marks, tabulates, and files articles, documents and records
Retrieves files with articles and records
Prepares file folders, labels, or files for use
May use office equipment such as sealing, binding, or stamping machine
May deliver items to other business establishments
May use the computer for data input, Internet searches, or other tasks
May use the computer to prepare letters, documents, and other reports
May answer the telephone, take messages, and disseminate information to clients
B. General Tasks
Initialed by job-site supervisor when mastered.
Maintains neat, attractive personal appearance with good posture
Maintains clean, neat clothing and wears specific uniform/clothes (if required)
Exhibits a cheerful, positive attitude and businesslike manner
Demonstrates an understanding of the company's vision and goals
Demonstrates an understanding of the company's products and/or service
Demonstrates interpersonal skills that enhance team productivity
Demonstrates the ability to resolve customer, employee/employer concerns
Demonstrates legal and ethical behavior within the scope of job responsibilities
Exhibits behavior supporting and promoting cultural and ethnic diversity
Follows policies affecting health, safety, and well being of all workplace members
Displays acceptable level of production and quality control
Demonstrates acceptable work habits and conduct as defined by company policy
Exhibits effective workplace safety practices including use of protective devices
We agree that the task, duties, and/or competencies identified above are to be included in the
student's on-the-job training while enrolled in this technical program.
Employer:
Date:
Student/Employee:
Date:
Teacher/Coordinator:
_Date:_
Career, Technical, Adult and Community Education
37
Student Performance Form
Student’s
Name:
Grading
Period:
Business
Name:
Supervisor’s
Name
and
Signature:
Date:
DIRECTIONS: Please circle the description of the performance that applies to the trait.
DIRECTIONS: Please place a check in the column that describes the specific job
skill.
SPECIFIC
JOB-RELATED
SKILLS
EXCELLENT
100-90
ABOVE AVERAGE
89-80
AVERAGE
79-70
POOR
69-60
Follows specific safety
rules
Wears necessary safety
equipment
Follows policies for
well-
being of all
employees
Applies knowledge of
environmental, health,
and safety issues
IN TERMS OF A NUMERICAL GRADE, I WOULD GIVE A .
100-90 = A 89-80 = B 79-70 = C 69-60 = D 59-0 = F
Career, Technical, Adult and Community Education
38
Monthly Time Card
Public School District: Broward County Public Schools, Florida
Name and Signature of Teacher/Coordinator:
Telephone Number of Teacher/Coordinator:
Name of School:
Address:
City, State and Zip:
Name of Student:
OJT Release Periods from School:
Social Security No.: XXX-XX-
Job Placement -- Name of Company:
Address of Company:
City, State, and Zip:
Supervisor’s Name:
Title:
Student's Signature:
Date of Birth:
MONTH:
Date
Arrive (Time)
Leave (Time)
Hours
Worked
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
Supervisor’s Printed Name
Supervisor’s Signature
Date
Supervisor attests that the time sheet is accurate to the best of his/her knowledge.
Notes: On a day when the student does not work, enter “OFF” in the Arrive (Time) column.
Form must be completed in ink.
39
Career, Technical, Adult and Community Education Employment Search
Contact Form
PLEASE PRINT ALL INFORMATION
Name
of
Student:
Program:
Teacher/Coordinator:
Date
of
Employment
Search:
Job Information
Job
Title:
Name of Company/Business:
Address:
Phone
No.:
Contact
person:
How
did
you
learn
about
the
opening
of
this
job?
Action Taken
Interview
Scheduled:
(Y
or
N)
Date:
Time:
Name of Interviewer:
Letter
of
application
sent:
(Y
or
N)
Date:
Phone
Number:
Date called:
Outcome:
Follow-up actions needed:
Note: Student must have one or more employment search forms for each
unemployed day the student is released from school for a job search.
40
Career, Technical, Adult and Community Education
Child Labor Law
Hazardous Occupation Form
LAST NAME FIRST NAME
MI
SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER
DATE OF BIRTH
XXX-XXX-
SCHOOL
TRAINING PROGRAM
Circle the bullet denoting the hazardous occupation(s) for which the exemption applies:
On any scaffolding, roof, superstructure, residential or nonresidential building construction, or ladder above
six (6) feet
In the operation of power-driven woodworking machines
In the operation of power-driven metal forming, punching, or shearing machines
Slaughtering, meat packing, processing, or rendering except as provided in 29 C.F.R. part 570.61(c)
In the operation of power-driven paper products and printing machines
Excavation operations
Working on electric apparatus or wiring
Operating or assisting to operate: (including starting, stopping, connecting or disconnecting, feeding, or any
other activity involving physical contact associated with operating) a tractor over 20 PTO horsepower, any
trencher or earth moving equipment, fork lift, or any harvesting, planting, or plowing machinery, or any
moving machinery.
In accordance with Section 450.061(2) F.S., the undersigned attests to the following:
(1) That the student learner is enrolled in a youth vocational training program under a recognized state or local educational
authority.
(2) That the work of the student learner in the occupation declared particularly hazardous is incidental to the training received .
(3) That the work performed shall be intermittent and for short periods of time and under the direct and close supervision of a
qualified and experienced person.
(4) That the safety instructions shall be given by the school and correlated by the employer with on-the-job training.
(5) That the student has a schedule of organized and progressive work processes to perform on the job.
PRINT OR TYPE STUDENT'S NAME STUDENT'S SIGNATURE DATE
PRINT OR TYPE PARENT/GUARDIAN'S NAME PARENT/GUARDIAN'S SIGNATURE DATE
PRINT OR TYPE EMPLOYER'S NAME EMPLOYER'S SIGNATURE DATE
PRINT OR TYPE
TEACHER/COORDINATOR'S
NAME
TEACHER/COORDINATOR'S
SIGNATURE DATE
PRINT OR TYPE PRINCIPAL'S NAME PRINCIPAL'S SIGNATURE DATE
A copy of this agreement shall be maintained by the employer and OJT teacher.
41
CTSO’s
In the state of Florida, career and technical programs suggest that students participate in a
“career and technical student organization” (CTSO) which allows them to learn new skills and
provides them with leadership opportunities. Each teacher/coordinator will have informational
handouts about the *career and technical student organization(s) available.
“A career and technical student organization is appropriate for providing leadership training and for
reinforcing specific career and technical skills. Career and technical student organizations, when
provided, shall be an integral part of the career and technical instructional program, and the
activities of such organizations are defined as part of the curriculum in accordance with Rule
6A-6.065 (8), FAC.”
AGRICULTURE, FOOD & NATURAL RESOURCES
Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources includes various combinations of subject matter and
learning experiences in agriculture production, agricultural supplies/services, agricultural
mechanics, agricultural products processing, ornamental horticulture, agricultural (natural)
resources, forestry, and planned leadership/employability skills. Opportunities for employment in
agricultural and natural resources occupations are found at all levels including technical,
managerial, and professional.. The purpose of this OJT course is to provide an on-the-job training
component in conjunction with a job preparatory program to prepare students for employment in
agricultural occupations. The OJT placement is to be directly related to the field of agriculture.
Major objectives of Career and Adult Education in Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources include:
• To develop agricultural competencies needed by individuals engaged in or preparing to
engage in Agriscience and natural resources occupations.
• To develop through exploratory experiences an understanding of, and an appreciation for,
occupations in Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources.
• To develop the ability to secure satisfactory placement and advance in an Agriculture, Food &
Natural Resources occupation through a program of continuing education.
• To develop the abilities in human relations which are essential to success in Agriculture, Food
& Natural Resources occupations.
• To develop the abilities needed to exercise and follow effective leadership in fulfilling
occupational, social, and civic responsibilities.
• To reinforce basic skills in English, mathematics, and science appropriate for the job
preparatory programs through vocational classroom instruction and applied laboratory
procedures or practice.
National FFA is the organization available to make a positive difference in the lives of students by
Developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through
agriculture education.
42
BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION
Business technology education is a group of planned, specialized instructional programs structured
to prepare students to enter, advance, and refine prescribed competencies for employment in a
cluster of business occupations or in a specific occupation chosen as a career objective. Congruent
to all programs are the identified economic concepts and leadership activities, which enable the
individual to function as a consumer, voter, worker, and leader in the American business system.
Business Professionals of America is a non-profit organization is to prepared students for the
business workforce through the advancement of leadership, citizenship, academic, and
technological skills.
DIVERSIFIED EDUCATION
Diversified Education includes courses, programs and activities designed to: (1) prepare the
student for employment in selected occupations utilizing the cooperative method of instruction;
(2) motivate the student to remain in school by providing a variety of supervised, occupational on-
the-job experiences combined with general human relations and employability skills; and (3) reinforce
the basic skills in English, mathematics and science appropriate for any job preparatory program in
which the student is enrolled.
Cooperative Education Clubs of Florida (CECF)/Business Professionals of America (BPA) are the
appropriate vocational student organizations to provide the student with leadership training and
reinforce specific vocational skills.
43
FAMILY & CONSUMER SCIENCES
Family and Consumer Science (FACS) courses leading to successful programs, services and
activities are designed to prepare youth for occupations in the hospitality and tourism, and
education and training fields. These programs provide subject matter and practical learning
experiences in the areas of food and nutrition, consumer education, family living, child development
and parenting, housing, home management, including resources management, and clothing and
textiles. Training provided for employment opportunities in all areas range from entry level through
technical, managerial, and professional. Today’s FCS professionals include early childhood,
elementary and secondary teachers, chefs, and hotel and restaurant managers.
Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) is the student organization affiliated
with Family and Consumer Sciences. It is the only national Career and Technical Student
Organization with the family as its central focus. FCCLA promotes personal growth and leadership
development through family and consumer sciences education. Members develop skills for life
through character development, creative and critical thinking, interpersonal communications, practical
knowledge, and career preparation.
HEALTH SCIENCE EDUCATION
Health Science Education comprises the body of subject matter and planned learning experiences
designed to prepare individuals with competencies required to assist qualified health professionals
in providing diagnostic, therapeutic, preventive, restorative, and rehabilitative services to patients in
health care facilities, in the home, and in the community.
Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) is the organization available to students to
enhance the delivery of compassionate, quality health care by providing opportunities for
knowledge, skill, and leadership development to all health occupation education students therefore
helping students meet the needs of the health care community.
44
MANUFACTURING, ARCHITECTURE &
CONSTRUCTION TRANSPORTATION,
DISTRIBUTION & LOGISTICS
These Clusters provides an on-the-job training
component for post-secondary students and dual enrolled high school students who are currently
enrolled in job preparatory programs. Students receive a combination of technical industrial instruction
in the classroom and related on-the-job training through employment in an occupational area directly
related to their program of study.
SkillsUSA-is the career technical organization affiliated with these career clusters. SkillsUSA-
prepares America’s high performance workers. The organization provides quality education
experiences for students in leadership, teamwork, citizenship, and character development. Student
members have the opportunity to compete in local, state, and national competitions in
which students demonstrate occupational and leadership skills.
MARKETING EDUCATION
Marketing and Diversified Education programs encompass occupational instruction in the field of
distribution and marketing. The marketing education program is designed to prepare individuals to
enter marketing simulation competitions. Emphasis is on the development of attitudes, skills, and
understandings related to marketing, merchandising, and management. Marketing occupations are
found in such areas of economic activity as retail and wholesale trade, finance, insurance, real estate
services and service trade, manufacturing, transportation, utilities, and communications.
The mission of this organization is to enhance the co-curricular education of students who have an
interest in marketing, management, and entrepreneurship. DECA seeks to help students develop
skills and competencies for marketing careers.
45
ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION SCIENCE,
TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING & MATH (STEM)
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
Information Technology and related Education is a logical link in
the educational process that treats both academic and career and technical skills in a theoretical
and applied way. Students are provided optimum experiences, both abstract and concrete, through
the applied study of technological tools, materials, systems, and processes. Students in technology
education programs learn to apply problem-solving skills to the solution of community, industry, and
life problems and technological issues. These program are organized around, but not limited to, the
technological categories of drafting, electronics, communications, construction, production, power,
transportation, aerospace, engineering, and supporting content areas.
OJT courses in these areas teach students how to survive in a modern world and in an economy
that needs, uses, and rewards an array of human talents much wider than the narrower academic
and occupational skills that are traditionally taught.
Technology Student Association (TSA) is the organization available to students to enhance the
development of the skills, creative abilities, positive self-concepts, and individual capabilities to use
a variety of technologies. This organization promotes growth and leadership development through
technical education.
