“It’s great to belong! ”
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“Career awareness and relevance begins at
the elementary level through STEM [Science,
Technology, Engineering, Math] Academies. There
are over 180 STEM academies in elementary and
middle schools across the district where students
apply mathematics and science in robotics,
engineering, and computer programming. Students
of all achievement levels benefit from the ability to
bring to life academic concepts that are normally
difficult to master.”
Hunt continues, “Middle school programs
provide career exploration experiences for students
to identify general areas of interest and develop a
plan of study for high school. Once they enter high
school students continue to refine their
career goals – possibly changing their direction –
and begin planning for life and education after
high school.”
In both middle and high school, students
can take part in a career academy that will
further connect their academic and career
studies. Career academies have a theme, among
which are aerospace, medical professions and
mechanics and involve both academic and
technical instructors teaching concepts through
the theme. This gives
students relevance
and answers the
question “why do I
need to learn this.”
The school district
is committed to its
goals and will continue
to provide programs
so its students can
succeed in the highly
competitive workplace.
According to Hunt,
“Specifically we
intend to increase the
opportunities for high
school dual enrollment
in the technical
college, increase the
number of students
earning at least one
industry certification
and meeting the needs
of the industry.”
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