Document 8 of 9
Employer Partnership Agreement
Memorandum of Understanding — VA Higher Institute Career Immersion Placement
Between: The Von Der Becke Academy Corp (The VA School / The VA Higher Institute)
8.1 Purpose
This Memorandum of Understanding establishes a cooperative relationship between The VA School and the Partner Organization for the purpose of providing structured career immersion placement for one or more students enrolled in The VA Higher Institute. This agreement is not an employment contract. It defines the roles, responsibilities, and expectations of both parties to ensure a safe, productive, and educationally meaningful experience for the student.
8.2 Student & Placement Information
8.3 Responsibilities of The VA School
- Provide the Partner Organization with a clear description of the student's academic background, learning goals, and behavioral framework
- Ensure the student arrives prepared, on time, and in compliance with the school's behavioral standards
- Assign a School Liaison (Head of School or designated staff) available by phone during all placement hours
- Conduct weekly debrief sessions with the student to translate field experience into academic learning
- Review and maintain documentation of student participation, progress, and any incidents
- Ensure all placements are reviewed for compliance with Iowa Code Chapter 92 (youth employment regulations)
- Maintain appropriate liability insurance for student activities during placement
8.4 Responsibilities of the Partner Organization
- Designate a Site Mentor — a staff member who will supervise the student during all on-site hours
- Provide meaningful, age-appropriate tasks and learning experiences within the student's chosen pathway
- Adhere to all applicable Iowa and federal youth employment laws regarding tasks, hours, and occupational restrictions
- Notify the School Liaison immediately in the event of any safety concern, incident, or significant behavioral issue
- Provide a quarterly written evaluation of the student's performance, professionalism, and growth
- Not assign the student to tasks classified as hazardous under the FLSA or Iowa Code Chapter 92
8.5 Compensation
- ☐ This placement is unpaid (internship / observational model)
- ☐ This placement is compensated at $______ per hour, paid directly by the Partner Organization to the student
- ☐ Other arrangement: ________________________________
If compensated, the Partner Organization is responsible for applicable tax withholding and compliance with Iowa and federal wage laws for minors.
8.6 Duration & Termination
This agreement is in effect for the period stated above. Either party may terminate the placement with five (5) business days written notice. The VA School reserves the right to remove a student from a placement immediately if a safety or conduct concern arises.
8.7 Confidentiality
Both parties agree to maintain confidentiality regarding student records and performance. Student information shared in the course of this placement is subject to FERPA protections and shall not be disclosed to third parties without written family consent.
8.8 Signatures
For The VA School
For Partner Organization
