Building Futures: Middle School Career Readiness

Capistrano USD and Laguna Beach USD, serving over 8,000 middle school students, have identified a critical need for early career readiness and exploration programs to address low CTE engagement, limited exposure to diverse careers, and inequitable access to resources—particularly for underserved students. Currently, only 8.41% of Orange County middle schoolers access CTE offerings, leaving many ill-prepared for high school pathways and the demands of a rapidly changing workforce. Using K12 SWP funds, the districts aim to implement innovative, inclusive programs that introduce students to high-growth industries like healthcare, technology, automation, and renewable energy, as identified in the SWP Plan and COE’s Labor Market Information. The initiative will build foundational skills in communication, problem-solving, and digital literacy; expand access to work-based learning experiences; and foster community partnerships for real-world career exposure. By prioritizing equity, sustainability, and early postsecondary planning, the program seeks to empower all students—especially those disproportionately impacted—with the skills and knowledge to make informed, future-ready career decisions.

Capistrano USD and Laguna Beach USD are using K12 SWP funds to implement a robust, equity-driven middle school career exploration and readiness program designed to equip over 1,900 students with the knowledge, skills, and support needed to make informed career decisions. This initiative includes hands-on career fairs, guest speakers, virtual workplace experiences, individualized career assessments, and personalized academic advising, with a strong emphasis on reaching disproportionately impacted student groups. Students will gain early exposure to high-growth industries, such as healthcare, technology, and renewable energy, while building foundational skills like communication, adaptability, and problem-solving. Industry partners and postsecondary institutions will support the effort through mentorship, field trips, and resource funding. Teachers will receive professional development to integrate career concepts into daily instruction. Measurable outcomes include increased student engagement, improved understanding of career pathways, stronger alignment with high school CTE programs, and enhanced academic motivation—ensuring a sustainable return on investment that builds a more prepared and inclusive future workforce.