A new-school approach to career readiness

Ohio parents want their children's schools to educate them in all the traditional subjects, of course, but the idea is that our public schools are a big part of what prepares students for life beyond the classroom someday. To that end, Bucyrus City Schools in Crawford County has come up with an idea other districts might want to consider. According to a report by the Bucyrus Telegraph Forum, the district has partnered with Team NEO to credential EVERY staff member as either a career connections adviser or career connections ambassador. This isn't just teachers. This is every trusted, caring adult working at the school able to help students graduate with their eyes on a career path and a future. In addition, three professional development days throughout the school year will also give educators the chance to learn more about regional industries so they can bring that knowledge back to students. "One of my priorities as lieutenant governor is making sure Ohio has a skilled workforce ready to fill the many opportunities available across our state," Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel said in a message to the district, according to the Telegraph Forum. "By using your professional development days to learn about these industries and the skills they need, you're building a bridge between our classrooms and the workplace, and that matters, not just for your students, but for the future of our entire state." Bucyrus City Schools says it begins career readiness efforts as early as preschool and carry it right through high school, where they are prepared for college, technical training, military service or direct entry into the workforce. "This is a long-term commitment to aligning education with opportunity," Superintendent Bob Britton said, according to the Telegraph Forum. "We want every student to see a future for themselves and to know that every adult in Bucyrus City Schools is prepared to help them get there." There are costs — in terms of both money and time — to consider with such an approach. But the possibility that our young people might be set on even firmer footing to take their next steps after high school graduation could turn out to be priceless. Ogden Newspapers