Getting Smart Podcast
Getting Smart Podcast
Getting Smart
What Do Meaningful Work Based Learning Experiences Look Like At Scale? | Stephanie Reisner and Steph Loeck
35 minutes Posted May 6, 2026 at 7:00 am.
In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark speaks with Stephanie Reisner and Steph Loeck of GPS Education Partners about how work-based learning can transform student engagement, career readiness, and economic mobility. Drawing on 25 years of experience and their new book, Make School Work, they explore what makes work-based learning truly high quality, why employer preparation matters as much as student preparation, and how regional ecosystems can scale meaningful career-connected learning opportunities for more young people. Outline
Introduction
Defining High-Quality Work-Based Learning
Make School Work: The Book & Framework
Employer Partnerships & Regional Ecosystems
0:00
35:11
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Show notes
In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, Tom Vander Ark speaks with Stephanie Reisner and Steph Loeck of GPS Education Partners about how work-based learning can transform student engagement, career readiness, and economic mobility. Drawing on 25 years of experience and their new book, Make School Work, they explore what makes work-based learning truly high quality, why employer preparation matters as much as student preparation, and how regional ecosystems can scale meaningful career-connected learning opportunities for more young people. Outline (00:00) Introduction (08:53) Defining High-Quality Work-Based Learning (11:26) Make School Work: The Book & Framework (21:58) Employer Partnerships & Regional Ecosystems (29:28) Metrics & Advice for Ed Leaders Links Watch the full video here Stephanie Reisner Steph Loeck GPS Education Partners Make School Work