Presentation Relevance to the CTE Field: By introducing students to careers within their community at an early age, this initiative fosters exploration of the trades and ignites potential passions that may lead them to pursue CTE courses in high school. Additionally, strengthening relationships with local businesses and industries creates pathways for future work-based learning opportunities, including internships and apprenticeships.
Value to Participants: Attendees will gain firsthand insights into the successes and challenges of building a program that serves students at multiple levels. This session could inspire new ideas and initiatives in their own communities, ultimately expanding career exploration and work-based learning opportunities for students.
Presenter Knowledge and Experience: The presenter brings extensive hands-on experience in developing and expanding career-connected learning programs. Since stepping into this role in 2022, the paid internship program has grown from fewer than 30 interns per year to 143 students working with 83 industry partners across sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, and public service. In 2023, these relationships led to the launch of an 8th-grade tour program, ensuring every student in the district visits four organizations each semester to experience careers firsthand. In 2024, the initiative expanded further with "Career Time Tuesday," a monthly career exploration event for all 5th-grade students.
