2025 SC Education + Business Summit

Micro:bits are relevant to Information Technology because they can be used to teach programming to students of all ages using Blocks, JavaScript or Python.  They are programmed using an online code editor, so students can write programs in class or at home on a chromebook or iPad.  The online editor can be used for instruction and projects even if the teacher does not have a set of micro:bits in their classroom.  
I will provide value to the participants by presenting lessons, activities, and resources that I use in my Introduction to Programming course. I will walk through example lessons to give the participants hands-on experience programming micro:bits like a student participant. I will also show examples of advanced uses of micro:bits that I use in my Intermediate Programming course.
My knowledge and experience come from several years of using micro:bits during my lessons.

Adult Education programs partner with various training entities to allow students to obtain industry recognized credentials while simultaneously attending Adult Education. These programs, called Integrated Education and Training (IET) programs, focus on the top career clusters to ensure that jobs are available in SC for students after they complete these programs. Possible collaboration with CTE Centers for occupational training may be an avenue to allow these students to reach their career goals and participate in quality training opportunities. Wendy Griffin and Anne Stone, members of the SCDE Career Readiness team, have many years of experience with connecting students to training and employment.

Join us for an insightful session at the 2025 Education + Business Summit, where we will explore the critical role of apprenticeship programs in enhancing career readiness within Career and Technical Education (CTE). This session, tailored for educators, industry stakeholders, and policymakers, will highlight the importance of innovative apprenticeship models that prepare students for successful careers in high-demand fields.

Attendees can expect to gain valuable insights into the following:

1. The Apprenticeship Framework: We will provide a detailed overview of the apprenticeship model, including its structure, benefits, and how it integrates classroom learning with hands-on experience. Participants will understand how apprenticeships are designed to meet the needs of both students and employers.

2. Early Education Career Institute (EECI) Case Study: Leveraging our experience as an Apprenticeship Ambassador and as a US Department of Labor (DOL) Registered Apprenticeship Sponsor, we will share best practices from the Early Education Career Institute. This includes our approach to training future Early Childhood Educators through structured apprenticeships, which combine academic instruction with practical work experience in real-world settings.

3. Pathways to Diverse Careers: Attendees will learn about the varied roles in high-demand sectors like Community Health Aid and Information Technology Help Desk. We will discuss how apprenticeship pathways can be tailored to meet the specific requirements of these occupations, ensuring students acquire relevant skills aligned with industry standards.

4. National Association of ECE Apprentices: As the curator of the National Association of Early Childhood Education (ECE) Apprentices, which has rapidly grown to over 400 members within its first year, we will present strategies for building strong networks and communities around apprenticeship programs. Participants will learn how to create and maintain connections within their local and national ecosystems to foster collaboration and resource sharing.

5. Strategies for Successful Implementation: We will offer actionable insights on how CTE providers can effectively implement apprenticeship programs within their curricula. This includes addressing barriers, securing funding, engaging industry partners, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

6. Evaluating Outcomes and Impact: Finally, we will discuss methods for assessing the effectiveness of apprenticeship programs, including tracking student outcomes, employer engagement, and overall program sustainability. Attendees will learn how to gather and analyze data to continually improve their apprenticeship offerings.

Takeaways:

By the end of this session, participants will leave with:

- A clear understanding of the apprenticeship model and its relevance to CTE.
- Practical tools and strategies to develop and implement effective apprenticeship programs in various sectors.
- Insights into networking and collaboration opportunities through the National Association of ECE Apprentices.
- Resources and contacts within the apprenticeship landscape to support their initiatives.

Join us to discover how leveraging apprenticeships can not only transform educational pathways but also significantly enhance the workforce readiness of the next generation!