Santa Maria Sun / School Scene

Linking students to the future

BY AMY ASMAN

The California Department of Education is launching a new pilot program that will give up to 20 school districts across the state money to create curricula designed to help students graduate from high school prepared to succeed in careers and college.

Applicants to the Linked Learning pilot program can include school districts, county offices of education, and direct-funded charter schools serving students in grades 9 through 12.

Linked Learning ties together real-world careers with academics and equips students with technical skills and knowledge.

“Career technical education overall, of which Linked Learning is an important part, is a powerful motivator for kids and a potential lifesaver for California businesses,” State Schools Chief Tom Torlakson said in a release to the media. “When students see a real pathway between school and careers, they are much more likely to stay on that path. This Linked Learning pilot program will help kids across the state succeed.”

Program participants can form regional partnerships with each other and work closely with nonprofit organizations and businesses when planning and implementing their individual curricula.

“The business community is a strong partner with schools and state and local leaders on improving education—and with good reason,” David Rattray, senior vice president of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce, said in the release. “These programs, which prepare students for college and careers, have a proven track record of providing us a next generation of employees who are dedicated, focused, and well-trained.”

The initial phase of the pilot program will run from 2012-17, with the 2012-13 school year serving as a planning year for participants.

Linked Learning is part of Torlakson’s Career Readiness Initiative, which aims to lower dropout rates and provide graduates with the skills needed to pursue further education and training, enter the workforce, and help the state rebound from its economic recession.

To learn more about Linked Learning or to apply, visit cde.ca.gov/fg/fo/r17/ab790rfa.asp. The deadline to apply is Nov. 30.

School Scene is compiled by Managing Editor Amy Asman. Information should be sent to the Sun via fax, e-mail, or mail.