Each week at Anderson Mill Elementary School, community business partners welcome a cohort of students to learn about a specific career field as part of the campus’ Apprenticeship program.

Students are able to choose from a variety of career fields as part of the program, including finance, healthcare and technology. The Apprenticeship program is hosted in part by a $50,000 Innovative Schools Grant, awarded to Anderson Mill by Round Rock ISD.

Angela Strohl, A+ Federal Credit Union member services officer, hosts an apprenticeship cohort centered on financial literacy. Throughout the 30-minute lesson, Strohl teaches students about needs vs. wants, budgeting and the importance of saving money.

“My favorite part of working with A+ Federal Credit Union is working with the schools,” Strohl said. “When you make learning about money fun for kids, it sticks with them.”

The Apprenticeship program is modeled and adapted from the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme Career Program. As an IB World School, Anderson Mill creates engaging learning opportunities to bring relevant lessons to students.

“We are an IB school and learn more about the world, not just inside the school,” said Ava Mitchell, Anderson Mill fourth-grade student. “During apprenticeship, we get to learn something different than just regular math and writing. We’re learning all about these different jobs.”

An Extended Apprenticeship program will be introduced in the after-school activities at Anderson Mill after the campus received a $50,000 Innovative Schools Grant from Round Rock ISD. Students in the after-school cohorts will extend their learning in career fields that provide hands-on opportunities while gaining math, science, reading and critical thinking skills.

“At Anderson Mill, we are fortunate to have a dedicated group of community members who are eager to help our campus,” Anderson Mill Principal Trana Allen said. “Our Apprenticeship program brings the professional world to our scholars, allowing them to embrace their interests and gain experiences in new, interesting ways.”