Eleventh Grade Students Participate in Job Shadowing Experiences

Academy of Law and Public Safety, Bethel High School

Forty-six 11th-grade Academy of Law and Public Safety students participated in a signature job shadow experience on February 26, hosted by the Hampton Police Division. 

Students were able to gain valuable insights into law enforcement and their day-to-day operations. This hands-on opportunity allowed the students to observe various departments within the division, including SWAT, Mobile Command Unit, Forensics, Recruiting, and K-9. The experience also included Hampton Fire, EMT, Emergency Communications, and Animal Control. This exposure helped students better understand law enforcement and fostered a connection between academic knowledge and real-world application. The students witnessed the collaborative efforts of various professionals, gaining insights into the diverse career options available. 

Aligning academy students with specific careers and/or organizations, this experience helps students learn more about the nature of jobs, work environment, and the education and training required to succeed.

International Baccalaureate, Hampton High School

Thirty-six International Baccalaureate (IB) Academy students participated in a signature job shadow experience on February 22, hosted at Hampton City Hall by the Clerk of Council. Students had the privilege of learning about city operations directly from key figures, including the mayor, city manager, and city attorney’s office. This immersive opportunity provided a comprehensive understanding of municipal governance. Students received a glimpse into the city's policy-making processes, the role of local government in shaping community development, and the operational and legal aspects of municipal operations. With the information received, the students will now participate in a simulation assuming the roles they learned about. This mock city council meeting will occur in the council chambers and serve as an insightful and educational experience that potentially inspires future public service leaders. 

The Academies of Hampton aligns learning with a career lens of interest. The mission is to prepare all students for success after high school for college, careers, and lifelong learning. To ensure all students graduate the Portrait of a Hampton Graduate, traditional learning experiences are integrated with skill development opportunities, better known as the Workbased Learning Continuum. This continuum connects the classroom to the community through authentic teaching and learning. During the 11th-grade year, our students have a behind-the-scenes look at the industry through an industry-driven, career-reflective job shadow. During the job shadow, students learn organizational operations while experiencing and demonstrating an authentic skill. 

Between February and March, 1500 students will have a job shadow experience in our community with the following partners: 

Busch Gardens

Hampton Public Works

J & F Alliance

Amazine Amazon

4-H & Youth Development - Virginia Cooperative Extension

Manifest Destiny

Alesha Brown Publishing

Anthem Healthkeepers

Mercy Chef’s

Please contact Erica Spencer at espencer@hampton.k12.va.us if you would like to host a job shadow.