FCS Students Gain Real-World Experience Through Internships

This semester, Franklin County Schools is proud to highlight three high school students who are gaining valuable, real-world experience through Career & Technical Education (CTE) internships. These opportunities allow students to apply classroom learning in professional settings while exploring potential career pathways.

CTE internships are structured, work-based learning experiences where students participate in the daily operations of a work site under the direct supervision of a business mentor. Internships provide hands-on exposure, help students build technical and professional skills, and support informed decision-making about future careers.

This semester’s interns include:

• Dustin Jordan, a junior at Franklinton High School, is participating in a manufacturing internship at Jackson Superior Electric in Youngsville. Dustin is learning about manufacturing processes, workplace safety, and the technical skills required in skilled trades.
• Madina Qazizada, a senior at Franklinton High School, is completing a social media internship at The Yoga Den on Mason in Franklinton. To earn honors credit, Madina chose to complete two additional projects, including developing a full month-long social media plan for the business; providing real deliverables and professional experience.
• Emily Aronson, a senior at Louisburg Magnet High School, is completing an education internship at the Louisburg Library in Louisburg. Through this experience, Emily is gaining insight into educational programming, community engagement, and daily library operations.

CTE internships are open to students in grades 11–12 who have completed a Level I Career & Technical Education course and are enrolled in or have completed a Level II course aligned with their career interest. Students must complete a 120-hour internship and pass both the pathway concentrator course and the internship course for it to count toward their career pathway.

The internship experience is jointly planned by the teacher, student, and business partner and may be paid or unpaid. Students are required to complete an internship application, after which the district’s Career Development Coordinator and CTE Department assist approved students in securing an internship placement.

Interested students who would like to complete a spring internship should contact Tara Southerland, Career Development Coordinator, at tarasoutherland@fcschools.net.

Franklin County Schools remains committed to preparing students for college, career, and life beyond the classroom by connecting learning to meaningful, real-world experiences.