Career Readiness | Discovery Education Nurture Curiosity Mon, 08 Dec 2025 22:26:08 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 Career Readiness: What It Is and How Schools Can Prepare Students for the Future https://www.discoveryeducation.com/blog/future-ready-students/career-readiness/ Fri, 05 Dec 2025 15:12:29 +0000 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/?post_type=blog&p=204497 Key takeaways Career readiness equips students with the essential skills and behaviors needed to succeed in college, careers, and the modern workforce. School districts improve student outcomes when they embed career readiness into academic instruction, career exploration, and real-world experiences. Partnerships, reflective planning tools, and intentional skill development help every student graduate prepared for what […]

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Key takeaways

  • Career readiness equips students with the essential skills and behaviors needed to succeed in college, careers, and the modern workforce.

  • School districts improve student outcomes when they embed career readiness into academic instruction, career exploration, and real-world experiences.

  • Partnerships, reflective planning tools, and intentional skill development help every student graduate prepared for what comes next.

future civil engineer

In today’s world, students need more than academic knowledge to succeed after graduation—they need real-world skills, confidence, and the ability to adapt to an ever-changing workforce.

Students don’t become career-ready just because they complete the traditional requirements for graduation. They develop these skills when schools provide purposeful learning, real experiences, and connections to the world beyond the classroom.

Understanding what career readiness is, why it matters, and how to build it into the school experience is essential for helping students succeed in college, careers, and life.

What Is Career Readiness?

When educators and families consider “What is career readiness?”, it’s best understood as preparing students with the knowledge, skills, and behaviors that will help them succeed in postsecondary education and the workplace. Career readiness is not about choosing a single job path. Instead, it’s preparing students to navigate a lifetime of opportunities.

Career-ready students demonstrate the ability to:

  • Communicate clearly and professionally.
  • Collaborate with peers and adults.
  • Solve problems and think critically.
  • Manage time, tasks, and responsibilities.
  • Use technology appropriately
  • Demonstrate self-awareness, adaptability, and perseverance.

These essential competencies— also known as employability or transferable skills—support students regardless of the career field they eventually choose. Whether a student chooses a four-year college, a technical program, the military, or enters the workforce directly, career readiness ensures they have the foundation and skills to take their next steps with confidence.

When schools make these skills part of everyday instruction, students build them steadily through consistent application.

It’s also important to note that career readiness is not separate from academics. Students build these skills through coursework, hands-on learning opportunities, and real-world experiences provided by schools.

When schools combine academic knowledge with practical skill development, students become better problem-solvers, effective communicators, and more prepared to succeed in a variety of settings.

Why Is Career Readiness Important?

Many families understandably ask, “Why is career readiness important?” Because work, college, and opportunities are changing quickly.

The Workforce Is Evolving.

Today’s students will graduate into a rapidly changing world shaped by automation, new technologies, and shifting job demands. Employers consistently report that academic knowledge alone is not enough; they need graduates who can think independently, communicate effectively, work in teams, and adapt quickly. Career readiness equips students with these skills.

It Improves Long-Term Success.

Students who understand their strengths, interests, and options make more informed decisions after graduation. This reduces college drop-out rates, decreases student debt, and improves long-term earning potential. Career readiness programs help students explore possibilities early, reducing the chances of costly trial-and-error later.

It Strengthens Student Engagement.

When students see the purpose in what they’re learning, their motivation grows. Experiences like career-based lessons, internships, job shadowing, and project-based learning show them how school connects to real life.

Simply put, career readiness matters because it prepares students not just for a test or a course, but for life. Helping students become adaptable and confident leads to stronger results in every area.

How Do You Teach Career Readiness?

Teaching career readiness is most effective when it is embedded in students’ school experience—not added as a standalone lesson or one-time event. Schools can build career readiness through intentional instruction, workforce partnerships, and other opportunities for authentic learning and experience.

Below are several effective strategies.

Integrate Skill Development Into Academic Lessons

Career-ready skills—like communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and problem-solving— fit naturally into any subject. Teachers can easily build these skills into everyday learning through experiences such as:

  • Science labs that require students to work together and analyze data
  • English assignments that build clear, professional writing
  • Math projects that connect numbers to real tasks like budgeting or design
  • Social studies presentations that strengthen public-speaking skills

When teachers intentionally reinforce these skills, students practice them regularly.

Offer Career Exploration Opportunities

Career exploration is most effective when schools introduce it early and well before students are in high school. Examples of early career exploration include:

  • Career fairs
  • Guest speakers
  • Industry and workforce panels
  • College visits
  • Personality and interest assessments

These experiences expose students to a wide range of pathways and help them better understand their career interests.

Expand Work-Based Learning Initiatives

Work-based learning turns classrooms into real-world experiences. Examples include:

  • Internships
  • Job shadowing
  • School-based opportunities (school store, yearbook club, school newspaper)
  • Career and Technical Education (CTE)
  • Service-learning projects
  • Mentorship experiences

Work-based learning experiences like these teach professional skills and expose students to real-world career opportunities.

Develop Community Partnerships

Local businesses, colleges, and government agencies are essential partners in developing career readiness, and many districts rely on structured frameworks such as those found in guides specifically designed to strengthen these partnerships.

Community partnerships provide resources and real opportunities for students to learn outside the classroom. 

Intentionally Teach Professional Skills

Students need clear instruction in skills such as:

  • Resume writing
  • Interviewing
  • Professional communication
  • Time management
  • Goal-setting
  • Workplace etiquette

Schools can teach these skills through advisory periods, career and technical education (CTE) courses, or integrated lessons across subject areas, where even traditional subjects like English naturally lend themselves to instruction in things like resume writing, interviewing, and other essential professional skills.

Encourage Reflection and Planning

Career readiness grows when students understand what they enjoy, value, and want for their future. Tools such as individual learning plans (ILPs), digital portfolios, goal-setting conferences, and a dedicated career-readiness resource help students reflect on their progress and set future goals.

When schools provide both guidance and opportunities, students learn not just what is expected in the workplace, but also what they want from their future.

Preparing Students for What Comes Next

Helping students build successful futures takes more than academics. Teaching career readiness skills helps students explore possibilities and build the skills needed to succeed in college, careers, and life. By connecting learning to the real world, building strong partnerships, and teaching essential skills, schools help every student graduate confident, prepared, and ready for life after school.

FAQs About Career Readiness

Most career readiness frameworks include four common stages:

  1. Self-Awareness – Students identify their strengths, interests, values, and personality traits.
  2. Exploration – Students research potential career paths, education options, and workplace expectations.
  3. Preparation – Students build skills through coursework, training programs, and work-based learning.
  4. Transition – Students apply their skills by entering a post-secondary pathway—college, trade school, certification programs, military, or direct employment.

Career readiness skills fall into three major categories:

  1. Academic Skills – Literacy, numeracy, technological fluency, and content knowledge needed for post-secondary success.
  2. Technical Skills – Industry-specific abilities taught through CTE programs or specialized coursework.
  3. Employability Skills – Communication, teamwork, problem-solving, professionalism, and other transferable skills valued in all careers.

These skills prepare students for meaningful post-secondary college and career opportunities.

A career readiness certificate shows that a student has mastered essential workplace skills. These certificates can help students:

  • Strengthen college or job applications.
  • Validate their skills to potential employers.
  • Qualify for internships, apprenticeships, or technical programs.
  • Build confidence as they transition into post-secondary pathways.
  • Stand out in competitive applicant pools.

Many employers see these certificates as signs that students are reliable, can solve problems, and are ready to learn.

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]]> career-readiness Curriculum-Aligned Resources in Discovery Education Experience https://www.discoveryeducation.com/blog/teaching-and-learning/curriculum-aligned-resources-in-discovery-education-experience/ Thu, 20 Nov 2025 20:04:51 +0000 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/?post_type=blog&p=203416 Curriculum-Aligned Resources: Powerful Support for Student Progress Emily is a third-grade teacher who’s passionate about her work. She loves seeing each student make progress on foundational skills throughout the school year, and she puts in extra time and effort to ensure that everyone can. While she likes the curriculum and resources provided by her school, […]

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Curriculum-Aligned Resources: Powerful Support for Student Progress

Emily is a third-grade teacher who’s passionate about her work. She loves seeing each student make progress on foundational skills throughout the school year, and she puts in extra time and effort to ensure that everyone can. While she likes the curriculum and resources provided by her school, sometimes she has to find and adjust additional resources to meet individual needs or change things up in her classroom.

Derek is a seventh-grade math teacher who enjoys using real-world problems to bring relevance to concepts discussed in his classroom and to show students the importance of math in life. Working from the district-adopted core curriculum, he has assembled a set of instructional resources that he can draw from, but he wants to incorporate current events and use new activities to prevent student boredom.

Though Emily and Derek have very different teaching responsibilities and challenges, they share a need for resources that can help them drive student learning more effectively. While they are willing to spend the time and effort to identify and modify more resources on their own, this may be difficult and stressful in light of their typically heavy workloads.

Curriculum-Aligned Resources in Experience Closeup

One way district leaders could address this is by offering high-quality curriculum-aligned resources to their teams. Let’s explore what we mean by this, why these resources matter, and what adoption mistakes districts should avoid.

What Are Curriculum-Aligned Resources?

Teaching and Learning Pyramid
Alignment in Every Aspect of Teaching Is Important for Effective Learning

Curriculum-aligned resources are resources like instructional materials, strategies, and supplemental tools for teachers or content students access directly, such as videos, interactives, or hands-on activities, that directly connect to learning objectives and outcomes in accordance with the adopted curriculum’s content and pedagogy. Teachers can use curriculum-aligned resources to enhance unit topics, review skills, or find instructional strategies to meet individual student needs—whatever it takes to support effective learning.

Key Factors in Positive Student Outcomes

Ultimately, all the work that educators put into each classroom, school, and district is designed to set students up for academic and career success. Recent studies and surveys reveal that the use of high-quality instructional materials (HQIM), accompanied by professional learning, is instrumental in boosting student achievement.

Standards alignment also plays a key role. EdReports’ State of the Market report says: “Teachers using aligned materials are more likely to implement high-impact instructional practices, such as engaging students in scientific models or justifying mathematical solutions. These practices promote critical thinking and deepen student engagement across subjects.” Plus, districts using aligned materials see less variance in teacher efficacy and are better able to support all of their students.

The best curriculum-aligned resources will include or support HQIM and align to state standards without requiring extra effort from teachers. This not only increases teacher satisfaction but also improves the quality of their teaching, leading to greater student performance gains.

Curriculum Alignment Is More Than Content

The content that curriculum-aligned resources provide may be a primary consideration when searching for and choosing them, but you need to determine whether a particular resource meets your expectations for learning. For example, the ISTE Standards* give educators and education leaders a framework for evaluating types of learning (creativity, collaboration, authentic problem solving, etc.) within digital tools that’s research based. And don’t forget interoperability: look for proof that curriculum-aligned resources will actually integrate with your other tools and systems, including your LMS and assessments.

 

*For over 20 years, the ISTE Standards have been used, studied, and updated to reflect the latest research-based best practices that define success in using technology to learn, teach, lead, and coach. 

Smiling African American Male Teacher Standing with Laptop

Curriculum-Aligned Resources Adoption Considerations

Curriculum‑aligned resources can become essential components of coherent, equitable instruction across the schools in your district. When you’ve adopted the right program, you can see the results in higher student achievement and teacher satisfaction. However, make sure you avoid these five adoption mistakes that can impede your success:

  1. A tech‑first, curriculum‑later approach: This can lead to misalignment, require teachers to find workarounds, and limit the impact of the resources.
  2. Minimal teacher voice involved: Teacher buy-in and fidelity could be significantly affected.
  3. “One‑and‑done” professional development: Orientation does not support the same success as ongoing professional learning.
  4. Ignoring interoperability: Hidden integration costs may be expensive, and data silos can interfere with a real understanding of student progress.
  5. No plan to evaluate effectiveness: Without quantitative and qualitative measures of usage and efficacy, funding may be wasted on subscription renewal.

More Impact with Discovery Education Experience

Curriculum-Aligned Resources in Experience

Experience combines ready-to-teach lessons, activities, and engaging content with research-backed instructional strategies and user-friendly tools. In its Curriculum Aligned Resources section, teachers will find content directly aligned to popular K–8 literacy, math, and science curricula. Each curriculum has resources that are thoughtfully organized by grade level and unit, making it easy to find age-appropriate content to meet student learning needs.

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Suggested resources vary depending on what point of the curriculum a teacher is in, but they often include a mix of instructor and student resources. Choices may include:  

  • Ready-to-teach lessons  
  • Reading passages  
  • Videos  
  • Activities  
  • Interactives 
  • Curated content channels  
  • Research-based instructional strategies 
  • And more!   

Finding the perfect curriculum-aligned resources in Experience is faster than ever with Personalized Content Recommendations, so whether teachers can get right to extending content, building background knowledge, or reteaching. It also includes customizable assessments and connects to a variety of LMS’s. 

Why not try our interactive demo today to explore Experience’s curriculum-aligned resources in more detail? 

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]]> CARs-Experience-Page-Closeup Teaching-and-Learning-Pyramid Blog-Teacher-Holding-Laptop-in-Class Curriculum-Aligned-Resources-in-Experience CAR-Wit-and-Wisdom-Gr7-Mod1 Futures Fair and Career Fairs: Shaping Student Professional Success https://www.discoveryeducation.com/blog/future-ready-students/futures-fair-and-career-fairs-shape-student-success/ Mon, 10 Nov 2025 20:29:45 +0000 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/?post_type=blog&p=203078 From Curiosity to Career: How School Career Fairs Shape Student Futures It’s so rewarding to see students make breakthroughs, whether it’s learning a new concept, developing proficiency across multiple standards, or finding a sense of direction for their life after they finish school. But that last example can often be a mystery for many students. […]

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From Curiosity to Career: How School Career Fairs Shape Student Futures

It’s so rewarding to see students make breakthroughs, whether it’s learning a new concept, developing proficiency across multiple standards, or finding a sense of direction for their life after they finish school. But that last example can often be a mystery for many students. Educators hear “I don’t know” a lot when they ask about career plans, even from high school students.

That kind of moment is why career fairs matter. For many students, especially those whose families or communities haven’t presented a wide range of professions, a career fair may be the first time they glimpse what’s possible. Hearing a powerful story, meeting someone with an impressive job, or just seeing someone who looks like them in a role they hadn’t considered can shift their perspective.

2025 Futures Fair HS Students by Table

Let’s explore the benefits of career fairs in general and then look at what makes Discovery Education’s Futures Fair stand out.

Four Reasons That Career Fairs Matter

  • Exposure Expands Possibility: Students can’t aspire to what they don’t know exists. Career fairs give them the chance to discover careers far beyond the small circle of what they normally see.
  • Relevance Connects School to Life: Research shows that students who participate in career development activities are significantly more likely to believe school is useful to their future. When they hear directly from a professional how math, writing, or teamwork matters in their field, students discover real-world applications for their skills.
  • Role Models Make Careers Real: Meeting professionals in person (whether an architect, nurse, or designer) helps them picture themselves in those roles. Career fairs turn job titles into relatable people and stories.
  • Interpersonal Skills for Success: Career fairs aren’t just about jobs, they’re practice grounds for life skills. Students learn how to ask thoughtful questions, introduce themselves with confidence, and explore what interests them. These interactions build social capital and professional fluency long before a job interview.

What Is Futures Fair?

Discovery Education’s Futures Fair is an annual virtual career fair connecting classrooms across the U.S. with real-world professionals from companies involved in STEM, the arts, skilled trades, entrepreneurship, public service, and more—including Honda, LIV Golf, and Verizon. Educators and students tune in to discover how today’s learning connects to tomorrow’s opportunities. They can choose from elementary, middle school, and high school tracks, which offer a series of 25-minute virtual sessions that give students a firsthand look at the skills shaping the future.

Our overall goal is that we want to encourage early and often career exploration and giving students all sorts of experiences that allow them to understand what their skills are, what they’re interested in, [and] who the people are in the jobs that they could be meeting.

Amy Nakamoto, EVP of Marketing, Brand, and Corporate Partnerships at Discovery Education
2025 Futures Fair HS Student with Corporate Partner

What Was the 2025 Futures Fair Like?

The inaugural Futures Fair connected over 30,000 students in K–12 classrooms, virtually and in person, for a day of inspiring learning and career exploration. Some of the virtual sessions included:

Elementary Track (K–5)

  • “Bright Minds, Safe Futures: Exploring Smart Tech & Creative Problem-Solving!” from Norton’s Director of AI & Innovation Iskander Sanchez-Rola 
  • “From Pipes to Sinks: The Plumbing Magic Behind Everyday Water!” from Home Depot’s Director Omni Retail Sales Casey Nix 
  • “Fire Detectives: Solving Mysteries with Science” from The Hartford’s Forensic Engineer Ben Smith 

Middle School Track (6–8)

  • “Medicine Meets Machines: Exploring the Future with a Tech-Savvy Doctor!” from Meta’s Director, Product Management John MacDonald
  • “From Cockpit to Cutting-Edge: A Journey into Aerospace Innovation” from Honeywell’s Distinguished Technical Fellow, Aerospace Technologies Thea Feyerelsen
  • “From Farm Fields to Lab Discoveries: A Scientist’s Journey to 3M!” from 3M’s Corporate Scientist Jeff Emslander

High School Track (9–12)

  • “Crash Science: How Engineers Design Cars to Keep You Safe!” from Honda’s Crash & Safety Test Engineer Paige Vernon, and Principal Automotive Crash Safety Engineer Susan Mostofizadeh
  • “Genes, Germs, and Discovery: A Biologist’s Mission to Make Science Make Sense!” by Illumina’s Senior Scientist Chris Beierschmitt
  • “Breaking the Mold: How Courage, Curiosity, and Steel Spark Lifelong Growth!” by Nucor’s Branch Manager Victoria Kirk

A huge thank you to Discovery Education for including my students and me in such an inspiring experience. The Futures Fair was awesome. Moments like these remind me why I teach to empower students with voice, choice, and a vision for their future.

Daniel Jones, M.Ed. ABD

In-Person Futures Fair

This year’s experience was not limited to virtual. We approached our longstanding partner Prince Georges’ County Public Schools with the idea of transforming Gwynn Park High School into a real-life Futures Fair for the day. We brought corporate partners to the event, so more than 500 tenth and eleventh grade students got the chance to interact with professionals from companies like Capital Power, AES, Charles River, and The Swinerton Foundation. They also got to learn about community organizations such as PGCPS Parks & Rec and Atlantic Union Bank.

2025 Futures Fair Kick off

Education advocate and former engineer Brandon Okpalobi kicked the event off by inspiring students with a message to make the most of the opportunity to connect and explore. Then students participated in hands-on activities to develop the “4 Cs”: 

  • “Pitch It” prompted kids to pitch a product idea in 30 seconds (Communication)
  • “Design a Logo” prompted them to design a logo for their dream brand (Creativity)
  • “Build It” challenged kids to build as high a structure as possible using pipe cleaners and tin foil (Collaboration)
  • “Reflex Test” asked them to consider what goes into making quick judgment calls (Critical Thinking)

The day concluded with a special, all-grades broadcast live from Churchill, Manitoba (the polar bear capital of the world). Renowned wildlife artist and former Disney animator Aaron Blaise explored how art can connect humans with wild animals, including polar bears.

All the students, educators, and professionals who joined the first Futures Fair made it successful far beyond our expectations, and now we can’t wait to do it again in 2026!

It’s very important to learn about [career options], so you can at least expand your information, [and] explore new things that you want to do in life.

Gwynn Park High School Student

How to Continue Career Exploration in Your School or District

Career exploration remains important beyond time spent holding career fairs. According to research we released last year, over two-thirds of students (67%) feel that their education is not evolving to meet workplace needs. And three out of four adults agree. However, we’re ready to help you change this for good:

  • Experience is the only teaching and learning solution that makes it easy to connect career exploration to curriculum.
  • Career Connect is built into Experience, making it safe and simple to bring industry professionals directly into classrooms.
  • Careers Hub lets educators access curated resources aligned to 14 career clusters, complete with profiles, virtual field trips, and immersive tools.

You’ll find even more resources through our partnership with STEM Careers Coalition.

Picture of DE Staff

DE Staff

David has spent over 10 years in various roles with companies seeking to improve lives through effective teaching and learning. He values the empowering nature of adding knowledge and strengthening understanding, whether personal or professional.

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]]> Blog-2025-Futures-Fair-HS-Students-by-Table Blog-2025-Futures-Fair-HS-Student-with-Corporate-Partner Blog-2025-Futures-Fair-Kick-off Picture of DE Staff Celebrating National STEM Day: Igniting Curiosity, Building Futures https://www.discoveryeducation.com/blog/teaching-and-learning/national-stem-day-activities-resources/ Tue, 04 Nov 2025 21:56:49 +0000 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/?post_type=blog&p=202613 Every year on November 8th, National STEM Day shines a spotlight on the importance of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education in shaping the future. This year, were thrilled to offer a dynamic lineup of resources and events designed to spark curiosity and connect classroom learning to real-world opportunities: Futures Fair: A Gateway to […]

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Every year on November 8th, National STEM Day shines a spotlight on the importance of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education in shaping the future. This year, were thrilled to offer a dynamic lineup of resources and events designed to spark curiosity and connect classroom learning to real-world opportunities:

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Futures Fair: A Gateway to Career Exploration

On November 5th, students nationwide will tune into the Futures Fair, a free virtual event featuring 30-minute interactive presentations from professionals across industries. Partners like Verizon, Honda, LIV Golf, The Home Depot, and Warner Bros. Discovery will share insights into their fields, helping students envision their future careers and understand the skills needed to succeed.

Sign Up for a Session!

Immersive Learning Experiences

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  • STEM Careers Coalition (SCC): Through engaging tools like Operation Communication and the Career Finder, SCC helps students explore workplace dynamics and discover career paths aligned with their interests.
  • Verizon: TimePod Adventures uses augmented reality to immerse students in STEM challenges guided by an AI assistant.
  • Niagara Cares: Salvage Safari, a Roblox-based game, teaches students about recycling and environmental science in a fun, interactive way.

Virtual Field Trips That Inspire

  • Sesame Workshop: Partnering on virtual field trips that make science accessible and exciting for younger learners.
    • Meet the Magnets heading to the U.S. National Science Foundation National High Magnetic Field Laboratory
    • Meet a Solar Telescope at the U.S. National Science Foundation Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope 
  • LEGO Group: Amphibian Adventures explores frog conservation and ecosystem health in Georgias wetlands.
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STEM in Action: Classroom Resources

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  • Honda: Safety in Action brings motorsports into the classroom to teach safety and technology through real-world examples.
  • LIV Golf: LIV to Learn offers digital resources that blend STEM, life skills, and sustainability.
  • The Home Depot: Science Fair Central provides over 100 project starters and hands-on activities to inspire innovation and creativity.
  • Itron: Conservation Station explores the energy-water connection and smart city innovations, encouraging students to think sustainably.
  • Freeport-McMoRan: Dig into Mining introduces students to the science, technology, and sustainability behind modern mining through interactive tools and real-world STEM applications.

More Engaging Resources for Exciting STEM Activities

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Engineering Dreams

ASME and Discovery Education are partnering to engage K-12 students nationwide in the biggest challenges of today while helping them unlock success tomorrow using the universal key of Engineering. Join us as we teach students to turn passion into an in-demand career in Engineering with standards-aligned resources designed for ALL learners and communities.
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American Petroleum Institute

Explore the American Petroleum Institute, the only national trade association representing all facets of the natural gas and oil industry, with career profiles and instructional activities. API’s more than 600 members include large integrated companies, as well as exploration and production, refining, marketing, pipeline, and marine businesses, and service and supply firms.
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STEM Careers Coalition

Did you know November is Career Development Month? Celebrate National STEM Day and Career Development Month with the STEM Careers Coalition! The STEM Careers Coalition's mission is to empower educators to teach STEM effectively in the classroom, focusing on equity and access to quality education, and building the next generation of solution-seekers at no cost to schools.

What are some ways you show students how STEM skills can lead to life-changing careers? Perhaps you can invite local STEM professionals to give a presentation on their career paths and how they achieved it or ask students to select a famous STEM professional for a report! There are many creative ways to engage students with STEM career paths, starting with the career resources in Discovery Education Experience.

National STEM Day is a reminder of the power of education to transform lives and communities. With these resources, educators can inspire students to dream big, explore boldly, and build the skills they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Looking for more STEM ideas? Check out ideas from other educators on the DE Blog! ​

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]]> what-does-curiosity-look-like.png Verizon-NextGenPD-Webinar-400×300-1.png Sesame-VFT-Magnets-Thumbnail-700×500-1 Home Depot_500x700 engineering-dreams-scaled.jpg API.png SCC-Twitter-1200x675a.png Building Career Confidence: Helping Students Explore What’s Possible https://www.discoveryeducation.com/blog/future-ready-students/career-finder-helps-students-explore-career-options/ Wed, 01 Oct 2025 03:24:34 +0000 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/?post_type=blog&p=200049 Middle and high school students often face a daunting question: What do you want to be when you grow up? For many, the pressure to have a clear answer comes far too early – long before they’ve had the chance to explore what options even exist. But what if we shifted the goal from choosing […]

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Middle and high school students often face a daunting question: What do you want to be when you grow up? For many, the pressure to have a clear answer comes far too early – long before they’ve had the chance to explore what options even exist. But what if we shifted the goal from choosing a career to building the confidence that one will suit them someday?

As educators, we’re in a powerful position to open that door. By providing space for students to explore a wide variety of career pathways – without pressure or expectation – we help them develop a mindset of curiosity and possibility.

Student Walking on Road Toward Question Mark

Exploring Careers for the Sake of Possibility

For today’s students, the world of work is bigger – evolving faster – than ever before. There are jobs in industries that didn’t exist ten years ago, and many more that students won’t hear about in everyday conversation. That’s why it’s essential to offer them guided ways to explore widely, before they feel pressured to decide.

Career exploration isn’t just about making decisions. It’s about building belief: belief that they’ll find something meaningful. Belief that their unique interests and strengths are valuable. Belief that there’s a place for them in the world of work, even if they don’t know what it’s called yet.

Career Finder from Discovery Education

Career Finder

Designed specifically for middle and high school students, this free, web-based tool helps students explore dozens of careers – especially within the wide world of STEM – through short videos and adaptive prompts. It’s a personalized, video-driven journey that puts students in the driver’s seat.

Using a mix of real-life job stories, engaging media, and thoughtful questions, Career Finder gives students a “conversation-like” experience – meeting real professionals and learning what they do, how they got there, and why they love it.

How It Works: A Journey of Self-Discovery

The Career Finder is built around four key themes that shape how students think about future jobs:

  • Workplace Environment – Do they want to work indoors or outdoors? With people or on their own?
  • Communication Style – Are they comfortable presenting? Do they like collaborating?
  • Motivation – What drives them: building relationships, pursuing their passion, learning new skills?
  • Level of Education – Are they thinking about college, apprenticeships, or on-the-job training?

Through each of these themes, students interact with the content by selecting preferences, watching short, high-quality videos, and providing feedback. They’ll meet a Minecraft Engineer, a Fire Sprinkler Fitter, a Bat Conservationist, and many more – each bringing something unexpected and inspiring to the table.

At the end, students receive a summary of their preferences, plus links to even more careers and learning resources. This open-ended structure means students can return again and again, discovering new paths each time.

Feet with Arrows Pointing All Directions

Why It Matters: The Benefits for Students

Girl Checking Hydroponic Plants

This Career Finder isn’t about locking students into one “perfect” job. It’s about inviting them to explore, reflect, and imagine the future on their own terms. Here’s what makes it such a valuable tool:

  • Confidence in the Future – Students hear directly from real people who once had the same questions they do now. That representation matters: it builds confidence that there’s a career out there they’ll connect with.
  • Early Exposure to Career Pathways – Whether or not students are thinking about jobs yet, seeing the variety of options early on helps them connect the dots between school and the real world.
  • Student Agency – The experience is self-directed, letting students choose what they watch and how they respond. This freedom supports authentic engagement.
  • Accessibility for All Classrooms – The interactive is browser-based, requires no log-in, and works on any device, making it a great fit for classrooms with limited tech or time.
  • Open-Ended Seat Time – With many branching pathways to explore, the Career Finder works well during advisory periods, enrichment blocks, substitute plans, or career readiness lessons.
  • Personalized Reflection – The interactive adapts to each student’s input and provides a summary they can use to spark follow-up discussions or guide further research.

How Teachers Are Using It

Here are just a few ways the Career Finder can be woven into everyday classroom moments:

  • Career Readiness Lessons – Use it as a launch point for classroom discussion or journaling about interests and goals.
  • STEM Classrooms – Show the diversity of careers connected to science, tech, engineering, and math – even ones students wouldn’t expect!
  • Social-Emotional Learning – Support self-awareness and confidence by helping students explore their communication styles and motivations.
  • Advisory or Homeroom Time – Let students explore independently, then share one new job they found interesting with a peer.
  • Virtual or Hybrid Settings – Assign Career Finder as an asynchronous activity with a follow-up reflection or class discussion.
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Starting the Conversation

The new Career Finder ends with a strong message: This is just the beginning.

Helping students explore careers isn’t about pressuring them to decide early – it’s about building curiosity, confidence, and clarity. When students understand that there’s a whole world of jobs they’ve never even heard of, they begin to see possibility in their future.

Discovery Education’s Career Finder gives them a safe, engaging, and empowering way to start that journey. It’s free, flexible, and designed with student voice at its core.

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Hannah McNaughton-Hussain

David has spent over 10 years in various roles with companies seeking to improve lives through effective teaching and learning. He values the empowering nature of adding knowledge and strengthening understanding, whether personal or professional.

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]]> Student Walking on Road Toward Question Mark Career Finder Feet with Arrows Pointing All Directions Girl Checking Hydroponic Plants Girl Looking Through Microscope Picture of Hannah McNaughton-Hussain Opening Doors to the Future: Celebrating Workforce Development Month in the Classroom  https://www.discoveryeducation.com/blog/teaching-and-learning/opening-doors-to-the-future-celebrating-workforce-development-month-in-the-classroom/ Fri, 19 Sep 2025 20:31:02 +0000 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/?post_type=blog&p=199194 September is Workforce Development Month—a time to recognize the importance of preparing today’s students for tomorrow’s careers. For educators, it’s a powerful reminder that career readiness starts early, and that exposure to real-world opportunities can be the spark that ignites a student’s future.  Imagine a classroom where students not only learn about math, science, and […]

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September is Workforce Development Month—a time to recognize the importance of preparing today’s students for tomorrow’s careers. For educators, it’s a powerful reminder that career readiness starts early, and that exposure to real-world opportunities can be the spark that ignites a student’s future. 

Imagine a classroom where students not only learn about math, science, and history—but also meet astronauts, engineers, designers, and data scientists. For many students, especially those in underserved communities, this kind of exposure can be life-changing. 

Why Career Exposure Matters

Educators know that curiosity is the spark that ignites lifelong learning. But curiosity needs fuel—and one of the most powerful sources is real-world relevance. When students meet professionals from diverse industries, they begin to see possibilities they may never have imagined. They start asking questions like: 

  • What does it take to become an astronaut? 
  • How do you design technology for space exploration? 
  • Could I do something like that one day? 

For students who may not have role models in high-tech or emerging industries, these moments of connection can be transformative. They don’t just learn about careers—they begin to see themselves in them. 

Career Connect: Bringing the Future into the Classroom

When you’re missing individuals in classrooms due to vacancies, your principals have to be very creative on how we ensure our kids are safe and continue to receive a high-quality education.

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Discovery Education’s Career Connect feature in Discovery Education Experience is designed to do exactly that. By linking K–12 classrooms with innovative industry leaders, Career Connect helps educators build students’ career readiness while sparking engagement and curiosity. 

Thousands of professionals have already shared their stories with classrooms across the country. And this October, students will have the chance to hear from one of the most inspiring voices in space exploration for a special spotlight virtual experience. 

 

 

Career Connect Spotlight: Bob Behnken

On October 7 at 1:00 PM ET, students in grades 6–12 can tune in live to hear from Bob Behnken, Vice President for Exploration, Products, and Technology Strategy at Lockheed Martin Space Systems—and a retired NASA astronaut. 

Bob will share what it’s like to do a spacewalk, fly a shuttle mission to the International Space Station, and train for space exploration right here on Earth. He’ll also talk about the skills needed to work in space—and answer student questions submitted in advance. 

Register Now to submit questions and join the event. 

Additionally, check out IF/THEN® STEM video profiles and student choice boards to spark curiosity, then explore a wide network of STEM volunteers ready to virtually visit your classroom with Career Connect. With support from Lyda Hill Philanthropies, you’ll help students see themselves in STEM and build bold futures.

More Ways to Explore Careers in STEM

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Discovery Education and the STEM Careers Coalition offer even more tools to help students explore future-ready careers: 

Career Finder Interactive 

Wondering where to begin the journey toward a STEM career? The Career Finder interactive helps students discover in-demand careers that align with their interests. By answering a few simple questions, students can explore personalized career paths and learn what skills and education they’ll need to succeed. 

 Try Career Finder and start exploring today 

Forging Innovation: A Mission Possible Virtual Field Trip

On October 9, 2025, unlock access starting at 7:00 AM ET to a brand-new virtual field trip: 

Forging Innovation: A Mission Possible Virtual Field Trip
(Grades 6–12 | 22 minutes) 

Take your students on a virtual journey into the world of steel—how it’s made, shaped, and used to build the future. This immersive experience introduces students to the science, engineering, and innovation behind one of the world’s most essential materials. 

Can’t join on the premiere date? No worries—watch at a time that’s most convenient for your class. 

Resources for Educators

Career Connect and the STEM Careers Coalition provide curated classroom resources—videos, ready-to-use activities, lessons, and interactive tools—to support career exploration and workforce readiness. These materials help educators integrate career learning into everyday instruction, making it accessible and engaging for all students.

This Workforce Development Month let’s celebrate the educators who are opening doors for students—connecting them with careers they may never have known existed and helping them build the skills to thrive in a changing world. Programs like Career Connect and tools like Career Finder make it easier than ever to bring the future into the classroom—and to show students that their future is full of possibility. 

Sign up to access the Virtual Field Trip and classroom resources - delivered straight to your inbox.

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]]> Teacher-Interview.jpg Teacher-Interview-1.jpg Empowering Financial Futures https://www.discoveryeducation.com/blog/future-ready-students/empowering-financial-futures/ Fri, 30 May 2025 14:54:24 +0000 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/?post_type=blog&p=192039 Summer is almost here, and while the school doors may be closed, the opportunity for learning remains wide open! The Pathway to Financial Success program is dedicated to empowering students with essential financial literacy skills, and summer is the perfect time to elevate this initiative. Let’s dive into how we can support students during these […]

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Summer is almost here, and while the school doors may be closed, the opportunity for learning remains wide open! The Pathway to Financial Success program is dedicated to empowering students with essential financial literacy skills, and summer is the perfect time to elevate this initiative. Let’s dive into how we can support students during these sunny months and ensure they continue to build a brighter financial future. 

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Pathway to Financial Success, supported by Discover Financial Services and Discovery Education, has been making a significant impact on financial literacy. The program is designed to bring financial education into classrooms across the country, providing funding for curriculum, materials, and teacher training. The goal is simple: equip students with the skills they need to succeed long after they leave the classroom. 

Why Summer Learning Matters: Summer learning is crucial to prevent the “summer slide,” where students lose academic skills gained during the school year. By integrating financial education into summer activities, we can keep students engaged and help them retain valuable knowledge. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to make learning fun and relevant! 

Strategies for Summer Learning

To keep students engaged and learning throughout the summer, it’s essential to incorporate fun and interactive financial education activities. Here are some effective strategies to ensure students continue to build their financial literacy skills during the summer months: 

  • Interactive Workshops: Host engaging workshops that combine financial education with hands-on activities. Think budgeting games, investment simulations, and money management challenges. These can be held at community centers, libraries, or even online. 
  • Reading Programs: Encourage students to explore books and resources on financial literacy. Partner with local libraries to create a summer reading list focused on money management, saving, and investing. Audiobooks and interactive e-books can also be great tools for learning on the go.
  • Family Involvement: Get families involved by providing resources and activities they can do together. Create fun challenges like “Family Budgeting Week” or “Savings Goals Month” to foster a collaborative learning environment at home. 
  • Online Learning Platforms: Utilize online platforms like Khan Academy, Duolingo, or Scratch to offer courses and modules on financial topics. These platforms provide interactive and engaging content that can be accessed anytime, anywhere. 

Support Teens This Summer with Financial Goals

Summer is a special time for teens as they embark on exciting adventures to test the waters on what it’s like to be independent and away from home. Here are a few resources that can help families support their teens this summer—from establishing good credit and strong savings to considering career options and life beyond high school!

Summer is a time for fun, growth, and learning. By integrating financial education into summer activities, we can help students stay engaged, retain valuable skills, and build a foundation for a successful financial future.  

Let’s make this summer a season of empowerment with the Pathway to Financial Success program! 

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DE Staff

Explore Pathways to Financial Literacy Success Resources this Summer

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]]> CEP-Image-Card-560×560-Discover Picture of DE Staff Taking Steps Toward Stellar Careers https://www.discoveryeducation.com/blog/future-ready-students/taking-steps-toward-stellar-careers/ Thu, 01 May 2025 16:22:11 +0000 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/?post_type=blog&p=190081 A student’s journey from kindergarten through graduation starts with small, but consistent steps. As they take each step, their interests in different topics will spark. And when those interests are nurtured and encouraged, even the smallest steps in career exploration can be a giant leap toward finding the perfect career! Teachers have a unique opportunity […]

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A student’s journey from kindergarten through graduation starts with small, but consistent steps. As they take each step, their interests in different topics will spark. And when those interests are nurtured and encouraged, even the smallest steps in career exploration can be a giant leap toward finding the perfect career!

Teachers have a unique opportunity to help students explore their interests and turn them into long-term learning opportunities or even their future careers! The DE team sat down with three NASA scientists about their journey to NASA and what advice they have for students who may be interested in pursuing a career in astronomy or aeronautics.

Meet the NASA Scientists

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Jamie Favors

I am the Director of the NASA Space Weather Program at NASA headquarters. As we prepare for more human exploration, I help plan how to protect our explorers from the sun, no matter how far or close they are to the sun during their mission. We work on all the things we have here on Earth that monitor the sun, and work with satellites orbiting Earth to make sure they collect data.

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Dr. Kelly Korreck

I am the Program Manager for the Agency for the 2023-2024 solar eclipses at NASA headquarters. In my position, I’m involved with all the different aspects of the eclipse—I work with folks who are building rockets to send up to into the eclipse, and work on citizen science projects, which everyone can do. I also talk about the eclipse to the media and on social media.

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Dr. Alex Lockwood Simpson

I am the Strategic Content Integrator for the Science Engagement and Partnerships Division. I am currently building infrastructure to support engagement for the 2024 solar eclipse across the United States. I am also leading all of NASA’s opportunities for in-person engagement, which will involve millions of people of all ages!

The Journey to NASA

Finding the perfect career isn’t always a straight or obvious path—it can be surprising or even inspiring! Read on to hear about how all three scientists became interested in space, how they were encouraged along the way, and why they were inspired to pursue a career with NASA!

Jamie Favors: I was very young when I begged my mom to buy me a book full of beautiful NASA satellite images and pictures of astronauts in the space shuttle. I still have this book at home today! Along the way, I learned that every challenge is a new opportunity. I’m originally from the Gulf Coast of Mississippi, and while I was attending college away from home, Hurricane Katrina happened. The hurricane impacted our homes and our family, so I transferred to a school closer to home. One day as I walked through the physics building, I noticed a pamphlet about internships with the NASA logo. With no real expectation that I actually would get in, I applied. 17 years later, I’m still here at NASA headquarters, doing things well beyond what I ever imagined at that point! As much as I can look back and remember some of the pain brought on by Hurricane Katrina, so much of it led me down this path to NASA.

Dr. Kelly Korreck: A family camping trip actually sparked my interest in space! I was about 8 years old when we went, and that’s when I saw the Milky Way for the first time. I left that trip wanting to learn more, and after that, I spent a lot of time in our local library reading every astronomy book I could find. Many different people encouraged me—my grandmother was very supportive and I also had great teachers. Specifically, I remember my 5th grade teacher, Mrs. Haley. I was in her class around the time of Haley’s Comet, and she made science relatable for us with fun experiments. The rest of my journey looks like a straight line: I got my degrees from the University of Michigan and I got a post-doc, a time after your doctorate degree where you study more before moving on as a research scientist. All of that was me finding my way! I kept asking myself, “What is the coolest thing that I want to do? Build a rocket? Go to Japan to work on an X-ray telescope?” I just kept following the next interesting project until I found the Parker Solar Probe, the probe that is going to be closest to the sun!

Many different teachers encouraged me or told me, “You can do this!” and, “You can have this as a career!” It really took a lot of people to encourage me to be a NASA scientist
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Dr. Kelly Korreck
NASA Scientist

Dr. Alex Lockwood: My interest in space started in high school. I had always looked up at the sky, but I never thought that it was something I could study! In high school, I took an astronomy class where we mapped the constellations on the ceiling of our classroom. I began to wonder how I could continue my interest in space and found that there were jobs studying space. I went to college to study physics and astronomy, then I got my PhD in planetary sciences. I left research and wanted to pursue communications and engagement and outreach because I wanted to contribute to sharing aspiration and science with other people. I took a job in the Middle East to gain some communications experience, and then I came back to the US and started working on NASA’s Joint Polar Satellite System before switching to the James Webb Space Telescope. From there, an opportunity to support NASA science more broadly came up, and that led me to my current position!

Advice for Aspiring Astronomers

If students have set their sights on the stars, their goals can feel very far off from the four walls of your classroom! The NASA scientists each have advice for students interested in pursuing a career in astronomy or have big career aspirations.

Jamie Favors: Be ready to learn! The best surprise that has come from working with NASA is all of the continual learning. You interact with people you never thought you would, working on things you never even knew about. There are often interesting lunch talks about different studies, like the “twin study.” A NASA research team shared how they studied a set of twins. One twin was an astronaut who lived on the space station for a year while his twin brother stayed here on Earth, and the study measured them for that year to see how they changed. Here at NASA you’re always so close to things that are really captivating!

Dr. Kelly Korreck: Follow your passions! There are so many ways to be a NASA scientist! You can even be a NASA scientist right now by participating in a citizen science project. You can find these projects online, which give the opportunity to do science related to NASA. When working toward a big goal like working at NASA, stay consistent about your passions, because if you’re not passionate about it, it’s not going to shine through!

Dr. Alex Lockwood: Work hard! I didn’t think that I had what it took, but there are many  opportunities in NASA that aren’t just being a scientist. Having a science background at any level helps! Whether that’s high school physics, a bachelor’s degree in astronomy, master’s, or PhD, any amount of science that you know will help you succeed in NASA. If you work hard and you’re doing something that you love, you’ll find a place to succeed and a way to get there. It’s not always going to be the path that you thought it was going to be, and that’s OK!

The school year is packed with exciting opportunities to help students research new career paths or harness students’ interests into further learning. Encourage your students to think about what topics they find interesting and help them leap forward to a future career goal!

Inspire the next generation of NASA scientists with tips from Tim Needles, innovative STEM education leader

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]]> nasa-jamie-favors nasa-kelly-korreck nasa-alex-lockwood-simpson de-quote-left-square-filled How Schools and Corporations Can Work Together to Build Student Career Readiness https://www.discoveryeducation.com/blog/future-ready-students/how-schools-and-corporations-can-work-together-to-build-student-career-readiness/ Tue, 08 Apr 2025 19:34:07 +0000 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/?post_type=blog&p=183256 In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, preparing students for their future careers is more critical than ever. While textbooks and standard curricula provide foundational knowledge, connecting students with industry professionals can ignite curiosity, inspire career exploration, and build essential career readiness skills. Here’s how educators and corporations can work together to bridge the gap between classrooms and […]

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In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, preparing students for their future careers is more critical than ever. While textbooks and standard curricula provide foundational knowledge, connecting students with industry professionals can ignite curiosity, inspire career exploration, and build essential career readiness skills. Here’s how educators and corporations can work together to bridge the gap between classrooms and the workforce, especially when using platforms like Discovery Education’s Career Connect.

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The Importance of Career Readiness

Career readiness is about equipping students not only with the academic knowledge they need but also with the practical skills and insights that will enable them to thrive in their chosen fields. Enhancing student career readiness involves engaging students with real-world experiences and professional insights. This approach helps students understand the relevance of their studies and envision potential career paths. 

According to the Hechinger Report and surveys from American Student Assistance, a nonprofit focused on career readiness, about two-thirds of high school graduates said they would have benefited from more career exploration in middle or high school. Additionally, 80% of high school guidance counselors said their students were “overwhelmed” by decisions about college and career. By incorporating career readiness programs earlier in education, we can better align student skills with employer expectations, ultimately enhancing employability and career confidence and success. 

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Why should corporations get involved in fostering students’ career readiness?

Build a Stronger Workforce for the Future: Corporations play a crucial role in shaping students’ career readiness by sharing insights and opportunities. By collaborating with educational institutions, they can provide valuable resources and mentorship that bridge the gap between academia and the workforce. This partnership not only equips students with essential skills but also helps companies cultivate a talent pool that meets their future needs.

Strengthen Employee Engagement Through Volunteerism: Corporations have a unique opportunity to contribute to student career readiness by encouraging their employees to share their expertise with students. Employee volunteerism programs provide a win-win situation for both the community and the company. Companies that support skills-based volunteer programs benefit from increased employee engagement and retention, while students gain valuable insights into potential career paths. A virtual platform like Career Connect is designed to connect skilled industry volunteers with K-12 classrooms, offering a streamlined solution for educators and professionals to collaborate.

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How can schools engage students with industry professionals?

Implement a career readiness program: Introducing students to industry professionals through a career readiness program can profoundly impact their future career choices. For example, when students hear directly from a software engineer about their daily challenges and successes, they can better understand what a career in technology entails. This firsthand knowledge can spark a student’s interest in a particular field and motivate them to pursue related studies.  

When developing a career readiness program, here are key steps to consider:

1. Assess Student Needs: Before launching a career readiness program, it’s essential to understand the specific needs and interests of your students. Conduct surveys or focus groups to gather insights into the careers they’re interested in and the skills they want to develop.

2. Partner with Corporations: Reach out to local businesses and corporations to explore potential partnerships. Many companies, like those who partner with Discovery Education, are eager to support education initiatives and can provide valuable resources and expertise.

3. Utilize Platforms like Career Connect: Leverage platforms like Career Connect to facilitate interactions between students and professionals. These platforms offer many resources and simplify the process of organizing and scheduling sessions.

4. Prepare Students: Ensure that students are well-prepared for their interactions with professionals. Provide them with background information on the professionals they’ll be meeting and encourage them to develop thoughtful questions.

5. Collect Feedback: After each session, gather feedback from students and professionals to assess the program’s impact and identify areas for improvement. Continuous evaluation and refinement will help ensure the program’s success. 

Building student career readiness is a collaborative effort that requires the support of educators, corporations, and the community. By leveraging the expertise of industry professionals and utilizing innovative platforms, we can inspire the next generation of professionals and equip them with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. 

Bring Skilled Industry Professionals and Leaders into the Classroom with Career Connect

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]]> what-does-curiosity-look-like.png Question-Icon-Lined-Space.svg Question-Icon-Lined-Space.svg Future-Ready Classrooms for Future-Ready Students https://www.discoveryeducation.com/blog/educational-leadership/future-ready-classrooms-for-future-ready-students/ Mon, 07 Apr 2025 19:34:34 +0000 https://www.discoveryeducation.com/?post_type=blog&p=186785 The disconnect between today’s classrooms and the demands of the modern workforce has become impossible to ignore—and students agree. According to the latest Education Insights Report from Discovery Education, 80% of students believe that learning content tied to real-world experiences is essential. Yet over 60% doubt the skills they’re learning in school prepare them for […]

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The disconnect between today’s classrooms and the demands of the modern workforce has become impossible to ignore—and students agree. According to the latest Education Insights Report from Discovery Education, 80% of students believe that learning content tied to real-world experiences is essential. Yet over 60% doubt the skills they’re learning in school prepare them for the workforce, and 71% aren’t excited about entering it.

But what if classrooms operated differently and weren’t confined by brick walls or a single campus? That’s the mission driving Dr. Romules Durant, CEO and Superintendent of Toledo Public Schools (TPS). Through his innovative vision for future-ready classrooms, Dr. Durant is courageously transforming education to raise graduation rates, ensure students are career ready, and build a strong community.

Ohio DOE Progress Ratings of
Toledo Public Schools

TPS leads Ohio urban districts in assessment progress with 4 stars.

45% of TPS schools scored at least 3 stars for the progress rating on closing the gap.

TPS Magnets and Academies are On Par or Exceeding the local high school on state testing.

Dr. Durant knows it can feel risky taking on a new approach, especially if stakeholders don’t fully see the vision yet, but he isn’t afraid to explore new avenues for bridging the gap between classrooms and industries. He actively collaborates with industry leaders who share his vision and are eager to partner with him. “It’s about taking calculated risks to change how schools operate,” he explains. 

Since Dr. Durant started in his role as Superintendent, Toledo Public Schools has turned into a top-rated school district in the state, and a model for others in how to implement successful work-ready programs, magnet schools, and specialized academies. In the latest Progress Rating from the Ohio Department of Education, nearly half of Toledo Public Schools received an Overall Rating of 3 or more stars, meaning they meet, exceed, or significantly exceed state standards.

Bridging Industry and Classroom​

The concept of future-ready classrooms starts with an “outside the box” perspective on bringing industries into the learning environment, and the determination to build strategic relationships with those who can make the concept a reality.  Dr. Durant and his team at TPS saw an opportunity to integrate the resources and expertise of their community to create hands-on, real-world learning experiences and work-based learning programs that focus on career exploration. This type of innovation requires thoughtful planning, relationship building, and of course, bravery. For Dr. Durant, that meant building trust and collaboration with all stakeholders, like the school board and local business leaders. Together, they decided to invest in initiatives that may not yet be the norm in K-12 education but show tremendous promise.

Redefining the Classroom

Classrooms don’t have to be just spaces for textbooks and whiteboards—envision multi-functional learning campuses that serve students, families, and communities alike.  

The Community Hubs at Toledo Public Schools are the perfect example of redefining the classroom. Today, six hubs offer academic and work-based learning opportunities for students as well as services and programs for the community, like financial management, childcare, homecare for senior citizens, mental health services, and even entertainment. It’s a dual-benefit model that exemplifies how blending education with community resources can make a tangible difference.

"Community members, like our senior citizens, can utilize the trades and services that are available. For example, we're finding out through local studies that what keeps a senior from owning their own home is the inability to do maintenance. We have a construction academy and landscaping program here on this campus. Put a ticket in, and a student, alongside a professional, will handle the issue."
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Dr. Romules Durant
CEO & Superintendent, Toledo Public Schools

The Power of Work-Based Learning

Career exploration should be central to every student’s academic journey, starting as early as elementary school. In fact, according to the Education Insights Report, 90% of middle schoolers today want more exposure to different career paths, while 88% wish they had more resources to better prepare them.  

Many countries around the world provide young students the opportunity to explore careers through work-based learning such as apprenticeships, intern- and externships, and immersive, future-ready classrooms. After an externship in Germany to study their workforce development programs, Dr. Durant implemented a strong emphasis on immersion. “That trip really helped set the stage for how to go about workforce development,” explains Durant. “We started erasing boundaries of communities and putting education at the place of industry . . . Imagine if you were able to go to school from 7-12th grade AND earn a degree at that place of industry. How better prepared you would be for the workforce!”

For example, the Toledo Technology Academy of Engineering for grades 7-12 allows students to explore engineering in a fully immersive learning environment with the Electric Vehicle lab, the first of its kind for an Ohio public school. With 11,000 sq. ft. of space, including six vehicle lifts for hands-on learning and a classroom, this lab gives students the opportunity to learn firsthand about cutting-edge technology, as well a current mechanics and displaced autoworkers a chance to enhance their own skillsets and careers. 

Another inspiring example is the Aerospace & Natural Science Academy—the aerospace campus is located at the airport where students can work on airplanes and even earn their pilot’s license, while the natural science campus is just next door to the Toledo Botanical Gardens.

“It’s about aligning kids to things they have an interest in, exposing them to career pathways, and that excitement is what brings them to school,” explains Dr. Durant. “I tell other superintendents that if you connect a student to a career pathway, that’s an increase in your graduation rate . . . the student is aligned to something where they can see and understand why this science experiment or this math skill they are learning matters.”

Through these programs, learning feels relevant. Students aren’t memorizing equations in isolation; they’re applying them on the job floor, in hospitals, and in labs. They’re building confidence as they earn credits toward 2- and 4-year degrees, as well as trade certifications, all while seeing firsthand how their future-ready classrooms tie directly to real-world careers.

Funding Innovation Through Relationships

None of these innovations are possible without financial stability and support. And Dr. Durant has proven that calculated risks yield remarkable rewards by establishing strong relationships with those who hold the purse strings. “It’s through a strong relationship with the school board,” Dr. Durant says, “that we’ve been able to mitigate risks and ensure we have the resources we need to launch programs that truly change how students learn.”

Securing local funding for future-ready classrooms also needs strong relationships with the community. Partnerships with local businesses, nonprofits, civic organizations, school boards, and city councils provide a wealth of opportunity for funding because all those involved have the same goal: ensuring students become successful members of the community.

Empowering Students. Strengthening Communities.

The goal of future-ready classrooms is clear—prepare students to thrive in a dynamic world. Students get a head start on building skills and earning credits, so upon graduation, they’re equipped with knowledge and experience to jumpstart their careers. Communities benefit, too. When young people feel supported, they want to work and live in the same neighborhoods that nurtured their potential, creating a strong, thriving local workforce. 

At TPS, this isn’t just a vision—it’s happening. Leaders like Dr. Durant are setting the standard, offering a clear model for schools and communities to follow. Discovery Education is proud to stand alongside courageous leaders like Dr. Durant to prepare future-ready students. We are continually innovating career exploration resources like Career Connect and the STEM Careers Coalition, as well as building partnerships with industry leaders that share our vision, to support career and workforce programs designed for 21st century students.   

With unique partnerships between Discovery Education and industry leaders, those same schools and communities can deliver students their holistic vision of what it means to be ready for the future.  Together, we’re rethinking education, one calculated risk at a time.

Jean Johnson

Jean Johnson

Access the Discovery Education career readiness guide, Expanding Opportunities: How District Leaders Can Champion Career Readiness, to learn key strategies for developingand maintaining career readiness programs in your district.

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