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Informational meetings next month open to families to learn about Cedar Rapids schools’ College and Career Pathways
Current eighth-graders to be the first in a new program launching next fall that aims to prepare students for the workforce, military or college
Nov. 22, 2024 12:26 pm
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CEDAR RAPIDS — Three informational meetings next month are open to families of current eighth-graders in the Cedar Rapids Community School District to learn more about a new College and Career Pathways program launching next fall.
The district is transitioning to a new College and Career Pathways program — beginning with Freshman Academies — that will “enhance students’ opportunities to engage in college and career readiness curriculum while developing transferable skills for the workforce, military or college,” according to a news release from the district Thursday.
These pathways will provide students with a “supportive, focused learning environment” where they can earn college credit or industry-recognized certifications.
These informational meetings are designed for middle school students, parents and guardians whose children will be directly impacted by these changes, but anyone is welcome to attend and learn about the College and Career Pathways Model.
The meetings will include information about the Freshman Academies, how this approach prepares students for success, and scheduling and class offerings.
Current 9-12th grade students will continue on their existing academic structure.
The meetings are being held:
- Monday, Dec. 2, from 5:30-7 p.m. at Kennedy High School, 4545 Wenig Rd., NE, Cedar Rapids
- Tuesday, Dec. 3, from 5:30-7 p.m. at Jefferson High School, 1243 20th St. SW, Cedar Rapids
- Thursday, Dec. 5, at Washington High School, 2205 Forest Dr. SE, Cedar Rapids.
What are College and Career Pathways?
Under the plan, each Cedar Rapids high school will have its own identified pathways and academies. When students are sophomores, they will have the opportunity to choose a pathway at Washington, Jefferson, Kennedy or Metro high schools beginning fall 2026.
College & Career Pathways at Washington High School will include the Schools of Medical Sciences, Business & Media, and Engineering & Technology.
The College & Career Pathways at Jefferson High School are Law & Human Services, Aviation & Engineering, and Environmental Science & Sustainability.
The College & Career Pathways at Kennedy High School will be the School of Liberal Arts. The academies under the School of Liberal Arts at Kennedy will be:
- Automotive Technology
- Business Innovation & Marketing
- Computer & Technology Sciences, Construction & Engineering
- Creative Arts & Design
- Education
- Environmental Science & Sustainability
- Finance
- Health Occupations
- Health Sciences
- Pre-Law & Public Safety
The College and Career Pathways at Metro High School will be the School of Health & Hospitality. This will include academies in Food Science & Urban Agriculture, Hospitality & Business, and Medical Laboratory Science.
Students will complete a three-course progression in a specialized college and career connected pathway and earn a college and career recognized credential. Regardless of which high school students attend, they will continue to have access to world languages and fine and performing arts opportunities.
Other opportunities, including Advanced Placement classes and dual enrollment in college courses, also will continue to be offered at each high school.
Last month, the Cedar Rapids district was awarded nearly $15 million from the U.S. Department of Education’s Magnet Schools Assistance Program to be used to support its pathway programs that school leaders say will graduate students better prepared for high-wage, high-skill and in-demand careers.
Comments: (319) 398-8411; grace.king@thegazette.com
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