Partnerships for Learning
Partnerships for Learning Action Team Update (Fall 2009)
Partnerships for Learning has two strategic intents or long-term plans. They are:
- By June 2013, 100% of students will utilize the career center in developing a career portfolio outlining post-high school preparation.
- By June 2013, the District will increase partnerships for learning by 20%, which will provide real life experiences that support students to achieve educational and career goals.
In 2008-09, the Partnerships for Learning Action Team set out to focus on the implementation of the year-one action plans that were derived from the work of a task force during the previous school year.
Action items included an overall review of the current high school Career Center career-exploration program and a districtwide inventory of current partnerships. The areas of focus included the development of a Career Portfolio project through the high school Career Center, as well as the expansion of Partnerships for Learning.
The Action Team specifically researched the ninth grade career unit, a structured career exploration activity that the high school already had in place. Students completed a computer-based interest inventory and then visited the Career Center to research careers that interested them.
The Action Team implemented a change in the ninth grade career unit halfway through the year. Now, the unit is done through the Business Department and more time is allotted for it. Students not only spend time in the Career Center researching careers that they choose, but they also follow up by completing an in-class project about those careers and present that information to their class.
Another 2008-2009 undertaking was a districtwide survey to begin compiling a list of current Partnerships for Learning. These partnerships were defined as collaboration with people or organizations outside of the district for the purpose of enriching the education of ESM's students in ways that support students to achieve educational and career goals.
This year the Partnerships for Learning Action Team is analyzing the data it collected. The action team will then formulate strategies for the development of future Partnerships for Learning, emphasizing those that promote 21st century thinking and learning.
Facilitators: Doug Mohorter and Lindsay Chapman
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