CRA Outdoor Learning Center Development

CRA aims to address workforce shortages in key Orange County sectors such as hospitality, waste services, and energy by expanding its middle school CTE electives to include agriculture, culinary arts, and sustainability programs. Serving over 800 K-8 students, many of whom are from disproportionately impacted groups, CRA plans to develop an outdoor learning center featuring hands-on projects like a solar-powered greenhouse and composting units to support project-based learning and career readiness. This expansion targets equity gaps by providing underserved students with greater access to high-skill, high-wage career pathways aligned with regional labor market demands. Through partnerships with local employers and collaborations with nearby high school districts, CRA will offer students training, internships, and career exploration opportunities, supported by professional development for instructors and targeted outreach to families. The initiative seeks to enhance student academic performance and workforce preparedness while strengthening connections between middle school CTE programs and future high school and postsecondary pathways.

CRA’s Work Plan funded by the K12 Strong Workforce Program focuses on developing high-quality CTE pathways in agriculture and sustainability through enhanced curriculum, real-world learning, and robust partnerships. Central to the plan is the construction of an Outdoor Learning Center (OLC) featuring a solar-powered greenhouse, composting systems, and an outdoor kitchen, providing hands-on experiences aligned with industry needs. The plan includes professional development for instructors to earn CTE credentials and collaboration with local employers, community colleges, and school districts to ensure curriculum relevance and seamless student transitions. CRA will serve approximately 800 K-8 students, with special outreach to underserved populations, by integrating project-based learning, career exploration tools, work-based learning opportunities such as internships and mentorships, and family engagement initiatives. This comprehensive approach aims to close equity gaps, increase student engagement and academic success, and prepare students for high-skill, high-wage careers, while sustaining long-term partnerships and program growth through ongoing industry and educational collaborations.