Uxbridge High School became a hub of inspiration and collaboration as it hosted the Massachusetts Real-World Learning Conference on May 9. Principal Michael Rubin welcomed schools from across the region, including as far away as Springfield and Rhode Island, in partnership with the nonprofit organization Big Picture. Founded in 1995, Big Picture centers education around students’ experiences.

The conference brought together 90 students and teachers who engaged in dynamic discussions, shared internship experiences and learned from one another. Andrew Frishman, Executive Director of Big Picture, energized the opening session by focusing on how internships guided by business mentors can profoundly impact students, using his own experience as an example.

David Moura, who oversees the program at Uxbridge High School, highlighted the value of these real-world experiences. “Having a sense of shared purpose helps us transcend some of the challenges outside of school, fostering skills development, knowledge gain, and an enriching path toward self-determination,” said Moura.

Students shared transformative experiences, such as Jayden DeLaCruz from MET High School in Providence, Rhode Island, who discovered his passion for seamanship after an initial internship at an exotic pet store. This revelation has steered him towards a potential career in engineering.

Superintendent Mike Baldassarre reflected on the day’s event, which emphasized the integration of real-world applications into educational frameworks. “Our involvement in this program exemplifies our commitment to connecting education with students’ future ambitions. That is what we are building together here at Uxbridge, the foundation for our students’ future,” said Baldassarre.

Rubin said, “There is universal agreement on the effectiveness of real-world-based learning. We believe it is the most effective way to help our students navigate their future career choices.”

For more information about the conference and Uxbridge High School’s inSchool programs, please visit the Uxbridge High School website.

About Uxbridge School District:
Uxbridge Public Schools, in partnership with parents, guardians, and the community, is dedicated to creating continuous growth and learning environments that ensure all students become empowered and progressive learners, innovative problem-solvers, flexible thinkers, and responsible and respectful citizens.