College and Career Awareness Course
The College and Career Awareness course is designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required to make informed decisions about their academic and career paths. This course plays a critical role in preparing students to be college and career ready, offering them the tools they need to navigate their futures successfully.
Course Overview
Grade Levels: The program is a course for middle school students, specifically those in Grades 7 or 8. It is taught by a collaborative team comprising Career and Technical Education Coordinators, school counselors, and Work-Based Learning coordinators.
Role of School Counselors: School counselors have a significant role in instructing students on essential concepts and aligning the Plan for College and Career Readiness (PCCR) with the students' goals and aspirations.
Instructional Methods: The course provides dynamic learning experiences through hands-on, real-world applications. These experiences are derived from project-based learning, simulations, and Work-Based Learning opportunities such as career fairs, guest speakers, field studies, and job shadowing.
Career Exploration
Students are encouraged to assess their personal interests and aptitudes to explore career options aligned with their capabilities. The exploration is guided by the current Career and Technical Education (CTE) Career Clusters and Pathways. Students will gain insights into accessing current information about market demand, average earnings, and the training and education requirements necessary for various careers. This knowledge aids in developing a well-defined Plan for College and Career Readiness (PCCR).
YouScience
A key component of the course involves utilizing YouScience, a tool that helps students discover their unique strengths and interests. YouScience provides assessments that align students' skills with potential career paths, allowing them to make informed decisions about their futures. The insights gained from YouScience empower students to create a personalized approach to their college and career readiness.