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Stafford County Public Schools Career Pathways Program: Exploring Future Careers for Students
The Stafford County Public Schools Career Pathways Program creates new opportunities for students to explore career possibilities, acquire real-world skills, and prepare for workforce or higher education success. Open to rising ninth graders and high school students; this initiative provides a wide array of specialty centers and pathways that cater to diverse interests and aspirations.
The Career Pathways Program is designed to align with the Stafford County School Board’s strategic plan by offering thematic specialty centers at local high schools. Each center focuses on specific career fields, ensuring students receive tailored education and experiences. For example:
– The CHAMP Center at Brooke Point High School emphasizes community health and medical professions, catering to students interested in healthcare careers.
– The LEAPS Program at Mountain View High School focuses on leadership education and public service, preparing students for roles in civic engagement and governance.
– The EPIC Center at Stafford High School highlights engineering, construction trades, and industries, equipping students with skills in design and hands-on building.
Students also have access to regional programs like the Commonwealth Governor’s School and the Virginia Lab School, which operate in partnership with local counties and the University of Mary Washington.
Assistant Director of College and Career Readiness Amy Nearman emphasized that the program allows students to “try before you buy” by exploring career interests early. “Sometimes finding out what you don’t want to do is just as valuable as figuring out what you do want to do,” Nearman said. This approach ensures students make informed decisions about their future without the financial risks of pursuing a misaligned college major or career path.
Discovery Nights: A Portal to Opportunities
The recently concluded Discovery Nights series offered families a glimpse into these opportunities. Held at Stafford’s five high schools in December 2024, these events featured presentations, exhibits, and interactive sessions where parents and students explored various programs and pathways. Michael Bolling, Chief Academic Officer, praised the events for their accessibility. “Expanding Discovery Nights to each high school allowed for a more personalized experience,” he said, noting the overwhelming positive response from attendees.
Stafford County Public Schools is calling on parents and businesses to get involved in shaping the future of the Career Pathways Program. Local businesses can participate by offering internships, speaking engagements, or advisory roles. These partnerships ensure that students gain relevant, hands-on experience while businesses help prepare their future workforce. Parents are encouraged to explore these opportunities with their children and provide feedback to help enhance the program.
Students interested in joining specialty centers or pathways should submit applications by January 24, 2025. Families can find more information on the school division’s website. Offers will be sent to parents on February 17, 2025.
Stafford County Public Schools has made presentation materials available online under the “Secondary Offerings” section of their website for those unable to attend Discovery Nights. Families with further questions are encouraged to reach out to the school division for personalized guidance.
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By Uriah KiserThe Stafford County Public Schools Career Pathways Program creates new opportunities for students to explore career possibilities, acquire real-world skills, and prepare for workforce or higher education success. Open to rising ninth graders and high school students; this initiative provides a wide array of specialty centers and pathways that cater to diverse interests and aspirations.
The Career Pathways Program is designed to align with the Stafford County School Board’s strategic plan by offering thematic specialty centers at local high schools. Each center focuses on specific career fields, ensuring students receive tailored education and experiences. For example:
– The CHAMP Center at Brooke Point High School emphasizes community health and medical professions, catering to students interested in healthcare careers.
– The LEAPS Program at Mountain View High School focuses on leadership education and public service, preparing students for roles in civic engagement and governance.
– The EPIC Center at Stafford High School highlights engineering, construction trades, and industries, equipping students with skills in design and hands-on building.
Students also have access to regional programs like the Commonwealth Governor’s School and the Virginia Lab School, which operate in partnership with local counties and the University of Mary Washington.
Assistant Director of College and Career Readiness Amy Nearman emphasized that the program allows students to “try before you buy” by exploring career interests early. “Sometimes finding out what you don’t want to do is just as valuable as figuring out what you do want to do,” Nearman said. This approach ensures students make informed decisions about their future without the financial risks of pursuing a misaligned college major or career path.
Discovery Nights: A Portal to Opportunities
The recently concluded Discovery Nights series offered families a glimpse into these opportunities. Held at Stafford’s five high schools in December 2024, these events featured presentations, exhibits, and interactive sessions where parents and students explored various programs and pathways. Michael Bolling, Chief Academic Officer, praised the events for their accessibility. “Expanding Discovery Nights to each high school allowed for a more personalized experience,” he said, noting the overwhelming positive response from attendees.
Stafford County Public Schools is calling on parents and businesses to get involved in shaping the future of the Career Pathways Program. Local businesses can participate by offering internships, speaking engagements, or advisory roles. These partnerships ensure that students gain relevant, hands-on experience while businesses help prepare their future workforce. Parents are encouraged to explore these opportunities with their children and provide feedback to help enhance the program.
Students interested in joining specialty centers or pathways should submit applications by January 24, 2025. Families can find more information on the school division’s website. Offers will be sent to parents on February 17, 2025.
Stafford County Public Schools has made presentation materials available online under the “Secondary Offerings” section of their website for those unable to attend Discovery Nights. Families with further questions are encouraged to reach out to the school division for personalized guidance.