Career Academy and Pathways

  • The  program is designed to encourage America's school districts, institutions of higher education, the workforce investment system, and their partners to scale up evidence-based high school models that will transform the high school experience for America's youth. Youth CareerConnect schools will strengthen America's talent pipeline through:

    • Integrated Academic and Career-Focused Learning 
    • Work-Based Learning and Exposure to the World of Work
    • Robust Employer Engagement 
    • Individualized Career and Academic Counseling
    • Integration of Post-secondary Education and Training

    Currently the District has two Academic Academies:

    The Academy of Finance at Como Park High School

    The Academy of Information Technology at Humboldt High School

    Greater Twin Cities United Way

Why CTE?

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    High-Quality CTE Programs

    The elements of high-quality CTE programs include:

    • Standards-aligned and Integrated Curriculum: development of CTE program curriculum and standards.
    • Integrated Network of Partnerships: business and community partnerships to support CTE program alignment and success.
    • Course Sequencing and Credentials: coordination of coursework progression in CTE programs and career pathways that lead to recognized postsecondary credentials.
    • Career-Connected Learning and Experiential Learning: career planning and career-based experiential learning opportunities.
    • Industry-specific Facilities, Equipment, Technology and Materials: facilities and equipment specific to work in given career fields.
    • Work-Based Learning (WBL): firsthand, onsite student engagement opportunities in a given career field.
    • Data for Program Improvement and Advocacy: use of data for continuous program improvement and advocacy.
    • Student Leadership Development: leadership development through embedded classroom activities and CTSO opportunities.
    • Access, Equity and Inclusion: CTE program promotion and support for all student populations.
    • Student-Centered Instruction: instructional strategies that support attainment of career-relevant knowledge and skills.
    • Professional Development for Knowledgeable Experts: qualifications and professional development of secondary CTE teachers.

    Did you know

    • The high school graduation rate for Minnesota students who are CTE concentrators (enrolled in two or more CTE courses) is 92%.
    • Nearly two-thirds (65%) of Minnesota high school CTE concentrators enroll in postsecondary for further education and career development.
    • In Minnesota, 86% of postsecondary students completing a CTE program were placed in employment by the end of the second quarter following program completion.
    • Nearly two-thirds (65%) of jobs will require some postsecondary training and/or education beyond high school.