The second is to improve student knowledge of and access to career opportunities. Students' career paths are not chosen for them, nor are students asked to make a final high-stakes occupational decision. Rather, career pathways developed by local school districts provide students with opportunities to explore many career options within broad subject areas. These subject areas include arts and communications, health, and science and technology. Pathways enable students to learn how their course work is relevant to their interests.
Students are free to change their career pathway any time.
Confidential student data will be collected and given to anyone expressing an interest in it. Personal information about students will not be shared without student or parent permission. That would violate the federal privacy law. These efforts build on existing local programs such as Tech Prep, cooperative education, and apprenticeship. Young people want relevant learning opportunities, and want a chance to learn both in school and on the job.