Exploring the Impact of Career Academies on Post-High School Graduation Trajectories for African American and Latino Inner-City Students
Authors:   , Edens Zakiya , Klein Valerie 
Published: January 2025

Career academies are specialized educational programs that offer graduates a pathway to acquire the skills, knowledge, and credentials needed to enter the workforce or pursue further education in a specific career field. These programs are designed to improve student engagement, reduce dropout rates, and enhance post-graduation outcomes. The impact of career academies on African American and Latino graduates has been the focus of much research and discussion, as these groups have historically faced disparities in education and employment opportunities. Studies have shown that participation in career academies positively impacts post-high school outcomes for African American and Latino graduates. Such graduates who participate in career academies have a higher likelihood of graduating high school and attending college than their peers who do not participate. Additionally, they have higher earnings and better job prospects, leading to a reduced wage gap between them and their white counterparts. While there are concerns that career academies may reinforce existing inequalities, there is evidence that they can provide African American and Latino graduates with greater access to high-quality education, mentoring, and work-based learning experiences. The study's overarching purpose is to advocate for change and progress. By examining the intricate ways race intersects with career academy structures and effectiveness, the research intends to contribute to a nuanced dialogue on diversity and inclusion within educational and professional settings. The findings will lay the foundation for actionable recommendations addressing these deeply entrenched challenges. The study aspires to promote the creation of more equitable and inclusive career academy programs, foster collaborative efforts among educators, employers, and policymakers, and pave the way toward a future where all students, regardless of their race or background, have an equal opportunity to succeed in their chosen careers and academic pursuits. The following research questions will guide this qualitative study: 1. How do career academy graduates describe their future aspirations and preparedness post-high school graduation? 2. How do career academy alums describe how the curriculum and program structure impact student preparedness post-high school graduation? a. How do alums describe work-based learning? b. How do alums describe the support school staff provides to help shape their opportunities post-high school graduation? 3. How do career academy graduates perceive and describe the disparities in their experiences after high school graduation? Recommendations and suggestions for future research are offered to guide educators, policymakers, school personnel, students, parents, and school leaders in understanding the barriers faced by Latino and African American students in inner-city career academies. This understanding is essential for fostering equitable opportunities and promoting successful post-secondary outcomes. Keywords: career academy, inner-city students, African American and Latino inner-city students, career and technical education, microaggression, race, post-secondary