Local District CTE Program Assistance

We assist districts in starting new CTE programs by helping to identify in-demand industries with high student interest, and ensuring programs meet state and national education guidelines. Our team works closely with district leaders to set up comprehensive programs that align with student post secondary goals and offer real-world applications of students’ skills.

Resources:

Department of Education Office of Career and Technical Education

For districts with existing CTE programs, we provide support in enhancing and expanding current offerings to ensure they stay relevant in today’s evolving job market. This includes:

• Updating curriculum and course offerings to reflect industry trends.
• Integrating new technologies and learning resources to improve the educational experience.
• Expanding access to additional industry certifications and credentials.
• Creating CTE program specific college credit agreements.

Resources: 

• CTE Credentials
• Postsecondary Credit Agreements

Navigating funding and compliance requirements can be complex, but our team is here to help. We assist districts in identifying available funding sources, such as state and federal grants, and ensure compliance with all regulations related to CTE programs. This includes helping districts create systems for local monitoring of state and federal requirements and maximizing funding opportunities to enhance program quality and student success.

Resources:

Funding and Monitoring

To maintain a high standard of instruction, we offer professional development opportunities for educators involved in CTE programs. These workshops and training sessions focus on:

• Effective teaching strategies for technical and vocational courses.
• Integrating real-world applications into the curriculum.
• Utilizing industry-standard tools and technologies in the classroom.
• Providing mentorship and career guidance to students.

Resources:

CTE Teachers

We connect districts with local employers who can provide internships, job shadowing, apprenticeships, and other work-based learning opportunities for students. These partnerships are essential in giving students hands-on experiences in the fields they are studying.

Resources:

Work-Based Learning

• Career exploration tools and resources to help students make informed decisions
• Support in integrating CTE and Work-Based Learning (WBL) opportunities into student career plans
• Guidance on using labor market data to inform career counseling

• Information on local CTE programs, certifications, and industry-recognized credentials
• Access to career fairs, job shadowing, and hands-on learning experiences

Resources:

• O*NET OnLine
• Pathfinder
• Pure Michigan Talent Connect
• West Michigan Works! HotJobs!

• Michigan Department of Education Resources
  • Michigan Career Development Model
  • Michigan Education Development Plan

• Ottawa Area ISD Resources
  • Educational Development Plan Model
  • Educational Development Plan Framework
  • District Educational Development Implementation Reflection Tool

• Guiding Michigan Legislation
  • MCL 380.1166a 
    • Model program of instruction in career development; "the superintendent Brian Whiston career pathways law."
  • MCL 380.1278b
    • Award of high school diploma; credit requirements; personal curriculum; annual report.
  • MCL 380.1277
    • School improvement plan.