Thomas
Jefferson High School, Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Thomas Jefferson High School in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, has developed Careers 101, a model program that infuses career exploration and preparation into the total educational curriculum. This effort to integrate academic and vocational education began when the Iowa State Department of Education mandated school-to-work transition as a high priority for Iowa public schools.
The Careers 101 program emphasizes professional development, in which teachers visit area businesses and industries to gain more insight into the world of work. Also, representatives of business and industry present programs on workplace skills and proficiencies that students need to develop in order to be successful in their future vocations. Applying what they have learned, teachers infuse career exploration and career preparation activities into their instruction. They model and require students to use workplace team skills in the classroom. They also have created cross-curricular partnerships, in which teachers from various disciplines work together to enhance academic and vocational learning.
The goal of this program is that each student will "develop the academic and social characteristics necessary for successful transition into future careers" (cited in First in the Nation in Education [FINE] Foundation, 1997, p. 4). To accomplish this goal, the school has outlined specific outcomes for students. One of those outcomes is the completion of a Personal Planning Portfolio, in which each student details career aspirations and vocational applications learned in classes. The school also is working to develop a career counseling program.
The success and relevance of Careers 101 is largely due to the Jefferson Business Alliance, a education-business partnership that connects the school with area businesses. Currently five businesses are involved: AEGON USA Inc., CRST Inc., Norand Corporation, St. Luke's Hospital, and the Cedar River Paper Company. An advisory board comprising representatives from the school and these businesses oversees all partnership activities.
In recognition of its work with school-to-work transition, Jefferson High School was awarded a First in the Nation in Education (FINE) Award for Careers 101. (Click on High School Activities to view the Careers 101/School to work Activities page.)
