Frank Edelblut Commissioner | New Hampshire Department of Education
High school students in New Hampshire now have access to a new work-based learning network developed through a partnership involving the New Hampshire Department of Education (NHED), Granite Edvance, and Xello. This initiative aims to connect students with internships, apprenticeships, job shadows, and other career opportunities through a platform that integrates with school systems, offering various resources to aid in career exploration and readiness.
“Xello really helped me narrow down careers I’m interested in,” stated Ashtyn Chadburn, a junior at Littleton High School. Commissioner Frank Edelblut of NHED remarked on the importance of the network, “This work-based learning network will open new doors for students, empowering them to discover and pursue their future goals with confidence.”
Christiana Thornton, President and CEO of Granite Edvance, highlighted the alignment of this resource with their mission. “Funding this wonderful resource aligns with our mission of assisting students of all ages and backgrounds in navigating their future pathways,” she said.
Xello CEO Matt McQuillen expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, saying, “We’re proud to partner with NHED and Granite Edvance on this important effort, and help shape the future of education and career readiness in New Hampshire.”
Educators also praised the platform. Mary Coleman, Internship Coordinator for Littleton School District, appreciated the platform’s broad appeal. “It’s not just for college-bound students,” she noted. Jillian Corey, Director of Career and College Pathway Development at Manchester School District, highlighted the platform's user-friendly nature for students and stakeholders.
The work-based learning program already involves more than 160 companies across New Hampshire. Businesses can engage with the initiative via New Hampshire's Statewide Work-Based Learning Network, while additional information for students and schools is available through designated online resources.
NHED's mission focuses on fostering educational excellence and career readiness across the state. Xello's platform is designed for students to craft personalized success plans through interactive assessments and career exploration. Granite Edvance, supporting students and families through counseling and financial assistance, rebranded in November 2023 and continues to offer its educational aid and loan products.
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