Oregon National Guard program offers students paid opportunities to earn HS credit, learn career skills

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) - High school students in Oregon will have a paid opportunity to learn professional technical training while earning high school credit, as part of the newly endorsed program called The Oregon Plan.

Created by the Oregon National Guard, the plan received official approval last month from the Oregon Department of Education, which is required as part of its regular renewal process.

“Through this exciting program, students get paid to earn high school credit, learn career skills such as basic finance, medic training, construction and engineering and practice working in teams,” said Dr. Charlene Williams, Director of Oregon Department of Education. “As students plan their summer of learning and work, I hope they consider this enriching and life changing option.” 

Background On The Oregon Plan

Established in 1995 as the Military Career Education Cluster Concept, "The Oregon Plan" enables school districts across the state to award academic credits to students who complete qualified military training and instruction. Approximately 700 high school students have joined the Oregon Guard since 2020.

“The Oregon Plan has been providing valuable education pathways for Oregon students for nearly 30 years," said Brig. Gen. Alan Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon. "We're proud to highlight this innovative program that recognizes the skills our young recruits gain through their military service."

Multiple high schools across Oregon participate in the program, including Pendleton, Hermiston, La Grande, Elgin, Wallowa, Baker, Ontario, and Grant Union High School in Eastern Oregon. Additionally, high schools in Jackson, Josephine, Klamath, Lake, Douglas, Union, Umatilla, Wasco, Hood River, Malheur, Baker, and Wallowa counties have also approved use of The Oregon Plan.

By enabling credit proficiencies through military training, the Oregon National Guard and The Oregon Plan exemplify a commitment to developing educated, skilled, and work-ready youth for future success.

"Our recruiters consistently hear from educators about the value of this flexible credit program, "said Lt. Col. Jessy Claerhout, Executive Officer, Recruiting Retention Command.  "It provides a helpful pathway for students to turn their military experience into academic progress toward graduation, while obtaining life skills and leadership training."

Many of the credits earned may also translate into college credits towards a higher education degree.

Sophomores and Juniors in high school can learn more about the program here.

You can also learn more about the Oregon Guard’s 100% College Tuition Assistance program here.