From Cutting-Edge Classrooms to Career: How Industry Partnerships and Innovative Spaces Drive CTE Success
When a business partner stepped into Iroquois High School's plumbing class, they stepped back in time. Students were still learning with lead pipe fittings, a relic in modern plumbing. Bringing this to the teacher’s attention, JCPS advocated for a change. They took their case to the Kentucky State Workforce Innovation Board, advocating for a curriculum that reflected current industry standards. Their efforts paid off, resulting in a statewide shift from outdated lead fittings to contemporary copper and PVC materials, which ensured that students learn skills relevant to today's plumbing industry
This change is a testament to the power of partnerships in Career and Technical Education (CTE). A single business partner’s commitment not only brought Iroquois High School’s program up to date but also ensured that students across Kentucky are learning skills that are relevant and applicable in today’s workforce. "It takes a village; the involvement of business partners is essential," says Beau Johnston, Director of CTE for JCPS.
These partnerships actively shape curriculum and ensure students are prepared for real-world careers. As another example, an electrical partner helped update a certification program to better align with industry needs. "They show the relevance of the content," Johnston explains. By working closely with industry leaders, JCPS ensures that students graduate ready to succeed in their chosen fields. "There is a smoother transition to the workplace," Johnston adds.
2024-2025 Pathway Enrollment Percentages for the Academies of Louisville
Choosing Relevant CTE Pathways
The selection of CTE pathways within JCPS is a collaborative and data-driven process that balances labor market trends, student interests, and equity considerations. Beau Johnston, Director of CTE for JCPS, explains that the district partners with KentuckianaWorks and utilizes data from sources like KyStats to stay informed about regional labor market trends. This information, available on JCPS's CTE Data Page, helps identify high-demand, high-wage industries that offer promising career opportunities for students.
However, the district's role is to inform rather than dictate. Schools make the final decisions about which pathways to offer, based on their unique student populations and community needs. This school-based approach ensures that pathways are tailored to local contexts while still aligning with broader economic trends.
Johnston emphasizes that equity is a crucial factor in this process. JCPS employs an "equity algorithm" for funding to ensure that all students, regardless of their school or background, have access to high-quality CTE programs that match their interests and potential career aspirations.
The current top five CTE pathway concentrations within JCPS, reflecting both labor market trends and student interest, are: Business and Marketing (22.26%); Healthcare (21.07%); Media Arts (11.13%); Skilled Trades (10.22%); and Law and Public Safety (8.53%). These pathways not only represent areas of high student engagement but also align closely with industries projected to have strong growth and earning potential in the region. By offering a diverse range of pathways and ensuring equitable access, JCPS is preparing students for success in both college and careers, while also meeting the evolving needs of the local economy.
Immersive Learning Environments: The "Wow Factor"
Equally important are the spaces where students hone their skills. JCPS has made significant investments in creating what Johnston calls "the wow factor" in its CTE facilities. These innovative learning environments not only provide hands-on experience but also promote equity, foster a sense of pride, and encourage student engagement
The "wow factor" spaces aim to build equity by offering state-of-the-art resources, fostering a positive view of CTE programs, promoting active participation, simulating real workplaces, and encouraging collaboration among students.
The diversity and quality of these spaces across JCPS schools are truly impressive. Southern High School's automotive academy rivals actual dealerships while the Academy at Shawnee boasts Kentucky's only in-school flight simulator. At Marion C. Moore School and Pleasure Ridge Park High School, Health Science classrooms mirror hospital rooms, providing students with a realistic healthcare environment. These examples illustrate JCPS's commitment to creating learning environments that not only engage students but also prepare them for the realities of modern workplaces across various industries.
Creating a Talent Pipeline
The success of these connections and spaces is crucial in preparing students for the workforce of tomorrow. As CareerTech emphasizes, students represent the future workforce, and their preparation must involve up-to-date equipment, connections, and ideas.
Johnston proudly notes, "Often community partners are amazed when they walk into the spaces." This combination of industry collaboration and innovative learning environments provides students with an unparalleled experience, equipping them with real-world knowledge that goes beyond traditional academics.
By investing in these areas and focusing on practical, real-world knowledge, JCPS is committed to creating a talent pipeline that benefits both students and the local economy. Through CTE, students gain not only theoretical knowledge but also the practical skills and experiences that prepare them for rewarding careers and contribute to a more prosperous future for the entire community.