The Ottumwa Community School District invites local employers and business partners to a Work-Based Learning Lunch & Learn on Thursday, March 12, from 12:30 to 3:00 p.m. at the Ottumwa Schools Agricultural Center, located at 14880 IA-149 in Ottumwa.

This interactive workshop will highlight how partnerships between local businesses and the Ottumwa Community School District can expand real-world learning opportunities for students while strengthening the local talent pipeline. Attendees will learn how work-based learning programs benefit both students and employers, hear first-hand experiences from those involved, and explore ways to get connected.

The event is designed for employers interested in building future workforce readiness through career exploration, internships, job shadowing, and other hands-on learning experiences. Participants will also have opportunities to network with other community and industry leaders.

“This Lunch & Learn is about creating meaningful connections between education and industry,” said Kolby Mercer, Ottumwa Schools' Youth Engagement Coordinator. “By working together, we can help students explore career pathways while supporting employers’ long-term workforce needs.”

The event is hosted in partnership with Iowa Workforce Development, Mississippi Valley Workforce Development Board, and IowaWORKS – South Central Workforce Area.

For more information or to RSVP, contact Kolby Mercer at kolby.mercer@ottumwaschools.com