Pearson and his Connections AcademyThe fully online public school program serving students in kindergarten through 12th grade, announced last week the expansion of its college and career-starting program to more than 20 schools. The program, which is now present in more than half of Connections Academy-supported schools nationwide, provides tens of thousands of middle and high school students with the opportunity to earn college credit and industry certifications, giving them a head start on their higher education and career paths.
Recognizing the demand for career opportunities, skills development and professional exposure, Pearson understood the need to tailor these to middle and high school students and launched Connections Academy. College and career readiness offerings in 2023.
The program's three-credit approach allows students to receive high school credits, industry-recognized microcredentials, and eligibility for college credit toward bachelor's degree programs in the U.S. Initially supported by curriculum and credential partnerships with Pearson's Coursera, Acadeum, and Credly, students now benefit from new partnerships with professional organizations including the Future American Business Leaders, The Home Depot, HOSA-Health professionals of the future and The SEMI Foundation, that provide them with career experiences in different industries.
“Nearly 70% of students begin thinking about their careers before 11th grade, and 14% begin considering their options between kindergarten and sixth grade.” said Lorin Thomas-Tavel, general manager of Pearson virtual schools, referring to Pearson's original investigation“Given the mindset of young people and the changing approach of students, universities and employers towards skills-based learning and hiring, it is imperative that we prepare them for successful early careers by addressing barriers such as cost and providing them with direction, confidence and connections.”
In addition to microcredentials and high school and college credits, these types of student needs are met through the program, providing them with access to career assessments and lessons, developing post-secondary plans, selecting specific careers, writing in career journals, watching career videos, connecting with career advisors, and earning badges.
Fall programming also includes participation from professionals in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, film and creative careers.
Students at more than half of Connections Academy schools now have access to college and early career programs, which will continue to expand to Connections Academy-supported schools in the coming years.
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