It’s clear that project-based learning (PBL) has the capacity to help us build better connections between our schools and the modern workplace. As we seek to move our cities and counties into the 21st century, PBL can help to develop a talent pipeline and tap the insights of tomorrow’s community leaders. But we definitely have some work to do.

2. Project-Based Learning
&
Government/Smart
Communities

4. Melinda Todd
City of Durham

5. What is the Durham Youth Work
Internship Program?

7. What are the types of projects young
people are working on as part of
their internships?

9. · Durham’s program matches student
interest to internship opportunities
· STEM is a special focus of the program,
due to the changing economy
· Placements vary from healthcare and IT to
architecture and engineering

10. What are some of the skills or takeaways
you want to impart to youth as part of
their overall experience?

12. · Provides career exploration opportunities
· Builds employability skills
· Enhances soft skills development
· Builds a youth’s professional network

13. How is the program structured between
the City, County, Public Schools and
Workforce Development Board?

15. · Based on a collaborative model between
local govt., workforce board and schools
· Governed by a steering committee
comprised of representatives from partner
agencies
· Directed by a strategic plan aimed at
providing opportunities for disadvantaged
youth

16. What would you say are three important
lessons for navigating the relationship
between the City of Durham and its
community partners, like the Public
School System?

18. · Partners must be engaged in meaningful
work—not just oversight
· Partners must contribute based on their
core competencies
· Coordination must be goal-directed
· Ongoing measurement and reflection is
key to success

19. What are some recommendations you
have for local governments interested in
starting a program like this one?

21. · Relying on a cross section of community
agencies can enhance sustainability
· Create a stakeholder team that is reflective
of the entire community

23. Visit http://durhamnc.gov/598/YouthWork-Internship-
Program for more information.

24. The Wrap-Up

26. Use the links below to access our online
discussion on Project-Based Learning in
the government sector. We appreciate your
insights and questions, as they will help us
with our push to enhance PBL across the
state of North Carolina.

27. Visit
emergingissues.org/FutureWork
for more information!