Have you ever wanted to be a part of the Youth Apprenticeship program, but you don’t understand how it works? Has it ever crossed your mind that you can get out of school early to get more benefits than work release?

Some people debate whether Youth Apprenticeship is worth the extra time and paperwork than work release. Some say it is, others say that it isn’t. So I went to our in-house expert and asked Mrs. Swanson, who coordinates both programs.

“It depends on your goals,” Swanson said. “But for most students thinking about their future, a Youth Apprenticeship (YA) can be the better option.

“YA gives you hands-on experience in a career field you’re interested in, paid work while you learn, connections with professionals and potential future employers, school credit. This allows you to leave school to work as a junior or senior and build a stronger resume right out of high school.

“A regular job might be better if you just want flexible hours and fast cash, but it won’t typically help you build toward a long-term career,” Swanson added. And only seniors are eligible for Work Release.

So what are some of the benefits of participating in the Youth Apprenticeship Program? Is it worth the time and dedication for someone to take part in the program?

“Since the YA program is run through the Department of Workforce Development, completing it earns you official recognition from the state of Wisconsin, which looks great on your resume,” Swanson explained. “Students in the program may also qualify for reimbursement of work-related expenses, such as clothing, boots, testing fees, and more.

“In addition, the school district receives funding from the state for each YA student. At Amherst, 100% of that money goes back into the departments that match students’ career pathways. This helps teachers support their classrooms or related clubs, enhancing the overall experience for students in those programs.”

Will going through the Youth Apprenticeship program instead of getting a job for after school really be worth the time that students put in?

“Yes, I think a Youth Apprenticeship can absolutely be worth the time, especially if you’re thinking about your future career,” Swanson said. “While a regular job through Work Release may offer quick cash and short-term benefits, a YA gives you hands-on experience in a career field, with mentorship, training, and even earning high school credit. You’re not just working—you’re building skills that will give you a head start in your career or education after high school.

“A Youth Apprenticeship (YA) is a structured program that combines school-based learning with paid, on-the-job training in a specific career field in the 16 career clusters—like health care, manufacturing, or construction. You work alongside professionals, gain real-world skills, and earn high school credit as an elective toward graduation.”

So who can take advantage of Youth Apprenticeships? Is it open to everyone?

“Students who are juniors and seniors are eligible for this program. A regular job, on the other hand, typically offers work experience but doesn’t usually include formal training, mentorship, or a direct connection to your future career goals. It’s mainly focused on earning money now. Only seniors are eligible for this program.”

Whether you are a parent trying to learn more about how each of the programs work, or even a student trying to get out of school to work, this story should shed some more light on the differences between YA and Work Release at AHS. Thanks, Mrs. Swanson!