High school, a fabulous journey of self-discovery, and a lot of confusion. Students often find themselves with a bucket of questions. What career do I want? Do I want to go to college? What college should I go to? Do I just want to work after high school? Do I have what it takes to go to college or start a career? As much as parents and teachers want to help their students, they may not have all the answers their students need. ElevateEdAZ recognizes that life after high school can be confusing, and we are here to help!
What is ElevateEdAZ?
ElevateEdAZ is working to bridge the gap between business and education. To accomplish this goal, we focus on a stronger alignment between education, business, and the community to help prepare Arizona students for college and career. ElevateEdAZ is committed to providing students with meaningful learning experiences that give them the technical knowledge and skills to be successful in college, career, and life.
ElevateEdAZ is Solving the Problem
There are currently 1.8 billion unfilled jobs in the United States according to the University of Arizona. Often, these jobs remain unfilled as individuals are not properly prepared with the skills necessary to enter the workforce. ElevateEdAZ works to ensure that students can graduate high school with the appropriate skills they need to feel confident and prepared for life after high school. To be successful in this work, ElevateEdAZ works closely with schools in the Phoenix Union High School District and has already engaged 35 employers to date to provide students with work-based learning (WBL) opportunities.
ElevateEdAZ is for Students
Work-based learning provides a way for students to gain exposure to college and career pathways, enhance employability skills, apply classroom learning, and build confidence and motivation. This helps students prepare for life after high school, whether this is starting a career right after high school or attending a two- or four- year institution. ElevateEdAZ wants to make sure that all students can gain the skills and preparation necessary to succeed.
ElevateEdAZ is for Teachers
Teachers want to ensure that students leave the classroom full of knowledge and excitement for the real world. ElevateEdAZ provides teachers with the opportunity to connect with employers to develop content and curriculum that meets the needs of employers. These opportunities help teachers prepare students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in college and career.
ElevateEdAZ is for Employers
ElevateEdAZ helps bridge the gap between business and students. By building strong connections within the classroom, businesses can help provide teachers and students work-based learning opportunities that help high school students become college and career ready. These opportunities include internships, mock interviews, field trips, and much more. This allows Arizona businesses to benefit from helping develop a qualified workforce forthe growing labor demand in our communities.
“ElevateEdAZ is committed to better aligning the skills education is providing with industry-valued skills. Giving students the opportunity to have work-based activities allows them to grow their skill-set before they graduate from high school. I am excited to get to work with students and help them achieve their goals and grow, whether it be through a two- or four-year institution or through a career after high school.” – Jennifer Mellor Chief Innovation Officer
ElevateEdAZ is excited to work with businesses, educators, and students to help put students on a path to success. Bridging the gap between business and education, Arizona students will become better prepared to enter the workforce.
The ElevateEdAZ team keeps growing! Don’t forget to read our previous blog introducing our two newest team members!