Pictured: 2024 Teacher Extern examining chemical reaction at Lhoist North America Lab in Clifton, TX
WACO, April 21, 2025 – Workforce Solutions for the Heart of Texas (Workforce Solutions) is now recruiting businesses in Bosque, Falls, Freestone, Hill, Limestone, and McLennan counties to serve as hosts for the 2025 YES! Teacher Summer Externship program.
The five-day externship, scheduled for June 2–6, offers local high school educators a unique opportunity to gain real-world industry experience they can bring back to their classrooms. The program includes an orientation, three days of on-site job shadowing with participating employers, and a final presentation day.
Funded by the Texas Workforce Commission, the YES! Teacher Summer Externship strengthens connections between education and industry by placing high school teachers inside high-demand, high-growth workplaces across the region. Targeted industries include construction, health care, manufacturing, and professional and business services.
Up to 25 teacher externships will be awarded this year. Participating business hosts will provide educators with hands-on exposure to daily operations, essential workplace skills, and current industry trends. There is no cost to the business, and all coordination is handled by Workforce Solutions.
“This program gives businesses the chance to shape what students learn before they even enter the workforce,” said Director of Business and Industry Initiatives for Workforce Solutions, Jose Palacios. “When teachers see your workplace in action, they can bring that knowledge directly to their students—making lessons more relevant, up-to-date, and career-focused.”
Businesses interested in hosting a teacher extern must complete the 2025 YES! Teacher Summer Externship Business Host Application by Friday, May 30. For more information, contact Palacios at 254-296-5383.
High school teachers selected for the program will receive a $1,000 stipend upon successful completion of all participation and attendance requirements. This hands-on learning experience helps educators connect classroom content with real-world skills—making learning more engaging and meaningful for students.
High school teachers must submit the 2025 YES! Teacher Summer Externship Application and all required documentation by Friday, May 16. For complete details, visit https://yestoyouth.com/summer-externship/.
Workforce Solutions for the Heart of Texas serves Bosque, Falls, Freestone, Hill, Limestone, and McLennan counties and is one of 28 local workforce boards funded by the Texas Workforce Commission.