The Importance of Advanced Technology and Career Pathways in K-12 Education

Colin Rickman, Director of Communications and Engagement, St. Vrain Valley Schools

St. Vrain Valley Schools, located in Colorado, is a leader in incorporating advanced technology in K-12 education. With our cutting-edge initiatives and programs, we have demonstrated that preparing students for a rapidly advancing technological world is not only possible, but necessary to improve the communities that we operate in. 

St. Vrain Valley Schools was at the forefront of bringing technology and access into the hands of our 33,000 students. Starting in 2012, our one-to-one iPad initiative gave all students access to the world. This played a vital role in our preparedness to not only continue to educate all children through the pandemic, but to thrive due to our experienced staff. Our system as a whole has seen success and of the many factors that contribute to that success is our adept integration of technology at all grade levels. We are intentionally building skills from early ages so that by the time students are in the latter years of their K-12 experience, they are using that technology to design, build, and create. 

Another important part of our success has come with the increased access to career and technical education (CTE). Through both our Innovation Center and Career Elevation and Technology Center, we offer high-tech pathways that lead to industry certifications. These pathways have proven to be highly successful. Alongside industry partners and mentors, students study high-tech fields such as robotics, artificial intelligence, aeronautics, advanced manufacturing, and cybersecurity, among others. With a focus on design thinking, students are prepared through problem solving and critical thinking skills. We have found that our industry partners are seeking these skills in their workforce, often more than any others as they need a workforce that is able to adapt and learn with advancing technology. Providing students with hands-on, practical experience in cutting-edge technologies is giving students a competitive advantage over their peers. 

The P-TECH program is another innovative initiative that is having a positive impact on students in St. Vrain. P-TECH (Pathways in Technology Early College High School) is a program offered by four of the districts high schools and provides students with the opportunity to earn an associate degree, alongside their high school diploma, at no cost to the student. The program is designed to help students gain real-world skills and experience in a specific field, such as computer science, cybersecurity, biochemistry, or business.

P-TECH students take a combination of high school and college courses that are relevant to their chosen field. This gives them the chance to explore their interests and gain hands-on experience in a particular career pathway. The program also provides students with opportunities for internships and other workplace experiences, allowing them to build relationships with industry professionals and gain a deeper understanding of what their future careers might look like.

“Providing students with hands-on, practical experience in cutting-edge technologies is giving students a competitive advantage over their peers.”

Overall, the P-TECH program is an innovative and highly successful initiative that is helping students in the St. Vrain Valley School District prepare for their future careers. By providing students with early exposure to post-secondary education and real-world skills, the program is helping them to achieve their full potential and succeed in the rapidly-changing world of work.

It's important to note that St. Vrain Valley Schools has a strong focus on building strong partnerships with community based organizations. We know that public education is a major contributing factor to the success of a community. High-quality public schools foster a strong workforce, increase public safety and community health, and increase commercial and residential home values. Partnering with businesses plays a pivotal role in building these programs not only financially, but in providing mentors and experiences for students.  

St. Vrain Valley Schools is leading the way in integrating advanced technologies into K-12 education. With programs like one-to-one access, high-tech CTE pathways, and P-TECH, our schools are providing students with the tools and resources they need to succeed in the 21st century. It’s our belief that the only way to give students the best opportunities and access is to embrace the importance of technology in education.

 

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