This document explains how organized labor can participate in school-to-career programs across California. The guide begins by detailing the following steps for becoming involved in school-to-career: (1) plan your strategy; (2) choose your activities; and (3) get connected. The following topics are discussed next: (1) principles and benefits of school-to-career; (2) significant contributions of organized labor to school-to-career systems; (3) key legal requirements of the School-to-Work Opportunities Act of 1994; (4) sources of information about joining a school-to-career partnership; and (5) potential contributions of various stakeholders to school-to-career programs. The following critical success factors are examined: (1) starting small, but starting nonetheless; (2) educating oneself, co-workers, and fellow union members; (3) thinking broadly; (4) working with intermediaries to help build partnerships; and (5) embracing the local community's diversity. The following strategies for labor involvement are detailed: (1) build (or improve) on what exists; (2) solve an organizational need; and (3) invest in the community. Guidelines for evaluating a partnership's success are included, along with sidebars explaining how specific California unions have participated in the following activities: (1) preapprenticeships and apprenticeships; (2) curriculum development; (3) worksite/workplace tours and visits; (4) educating educators; and (5) job shadowing. A glossary of school-to-career terms and list of 61 resources and links are included. (MN)