Project Industry Diversity Equity and Access (IDEA)

Santa Ana Unified School District (SAUSD) faces significant challenges in preparing its predominantly Latinx, socioeconomically disadvantaged, and English learner student population for stable, high-wage careers in key growing sectors identified by the Orange County Strong Workforce Program: Energy, Construction & Utilities; Health; and ICT/Digital Media. The district grapples with post-pandemic academic setbacks, chronic absenteeism, and student disengagement, which hinder access to and completion of Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways. Despite regional labor market growth and living wages exceeding $20/hour in these fields, current student capacity and participation are insufficient, particularly among underrepresented genders and special populations. SAUSD aims to leverage SWP funds to expand course offerings, promote equitable recruitment, enhance dual enrollment opportunities with Santa Ana College, and strengthen work-based learning and industry partnerships. The project’s objectives include increasing pathway enrollment and counseling support for underserved students, boosting engagement with industry professionals, improving gender representation in non-traditional sectors, and ensuring certification attainment, thereby fostering clearer secondary-to-postsecondary career pathways aligned with local workforce needs.

The Santa Ana Unified School District (SAUSD) Work Plan focuses on strengthening postsecondary transition, completion, and work-based learning within three key Career Technical Education (CTE) sectors—Health, ICT/Digital Media, and Building Trades—using K12 Strong Workforce Program (SWP) funds. The plan includes expanding early access to ICT pathways starting at the intermediate school level through introductory courses and summer boot camps, increasing A-G and dual enrollment courses in partnership with Santa Ana College, and embedding AVID strategies to boost student readiness. Efforts also target gender equity by promoting male participation in healthcare and female enrollment in trades and ICT fields. Work-based learning is enhanced through industry partnerships facilitated by the Santa Ana Chamber of Commerce and other community organizations, offering internships, mentoring, field trips, and job shadowing. Key measurable outcomes include increased student matriculation into pathways, improved counseling access for underrepresented groups, certification attainment, and strengthened alignment between high school and postsecondary programs. These coordinated activities aim to prepare over 7,000 students and 300 staff members with the skills, experiences, and support needed for successful transitions into high-demand, high-wage careers, while addressing barriers faced by disproportionately impacted students through integrated counseling, community outreach, and targeted mentorship programs.