Work Ethic Distinction

The TN Work Ethic Distinction (WED) program and the 8th Grade Work Ethic Distinction are two interconnected initiatives in Rutherford County designed to foster work ethic and career readiness in students.

The TN WED program, available to graduating high school students, is a credential earned through completing a checklist of requirements during their senior year, offering benefits such as priority interviews with participating employers statewide. Inspired by this successful model, the 8th Grade Work Ethic Distinction program was designed to help middle school students develop essential skills and a strong work ethic earlier in their academic journey.

While the 8th Grade program focuses on personal growth, discipline, and community service to prepare students for future challenges, the TN WED program builds on this foundation, and students earn a state-recognized certification.

Together, these programs create a comprehensive pathway for students to develop and demonstrate their work ethic from middle school through high school graduation, ensuring they are both college and career-ready.

Rutherford County 8th Grade Work Ethic Distinction

What it is: The 8th Grade Work Ethic Distinction recognizes middle school students who consistently demonstrate strong work habits. Students earn this distinction by meeting key standards such as excellent attendance, active participation in extracurricular activities, and meaningful contributions to their community through service projects. This program highlights students who go above and beyond in preparing for their future.

Who it’s for: Targeted at 8th-grade students, this distinction encourages them to develop important habits early. While students officially earn the recognition in 8th grade, they can begin building these skills as early as 6th grade. The program is designed to set a foundation that naturally builds toward the High School Work Ethic Distinction seniors can earn, creating a clear path of growth from middle school through graduation.

Why it matters: Earning the Work Ethic Distinction helps students develop responsibility, time management, and confidence – skills that are essential for both school and future careers. It also connects students to valuable resources, mentors, and pathways in Rutherford County. By participating, students not only prepare for immediate success in middle school but also set themselves up to achieve the same recognition in high school, reflecting a continuous commitment to excellence that inspired Rutherford County to create this 8th-grade program.

TN Work Ethic Distinction

What it is: The TN Work Ethic Distinction recognizes seniors who consistently demonstrate strong workplace-ready habits. Students earn this distinction by meeting standards such as excellent attendance, earning industry credentials, achieving the ACT WorkKeys National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC), and maintaining a drug-free lifestyle. This program highlights students who are prepared for success in both college and career pathways.

Who it’s for: Aimed at high school seniors, the distinction encourages students to build strong habits throughout their high school years. Preparation begins as early as 9th grade, allowing students to steadily develop the skills, experience, and credentials that set them apart as reliable, responsible, and career-ready graduates.

Why it matters: Earning the Work Ethic Distinction connects students directly with local employers who partner with Rutherford Works. These employers commit to offering interviews to qualifying students, giving them a competitive edge in entering the workforce or pursuing post-secondary education. Beyond immediate opportunities, the program fosters responsibility, confidence, and a professional mindset that benefits students throughout their adult lives.

Participating Employer List