Sustainable Futures Project

The Vista Charter Public Schools Orange County Consortium addresses the urgent need for sustainable career pathways in response to significant climate change impacts and emerging environmental job markets projected to create millions of new positions by 2045. Despite high student interest—particularly among English Learners, Hispanic students, those eligible for free meals, and students with disabilities—there is a lack of coordinated Environmental Resources CTE pathways, dual enrollment opportunities, and extended learning activities in Southern California. To bridge these gaps, the consortium’s Sustainable Futures Project aims to implement a comprehensive 7-14 articulated CTE pathway with professional development for teachers, establish partnerships with community colleges for sustainability-related dual enrollment certificates, and launch CTSO chapters to foster leadership and engagement. This initiative prioritizes equitable access by providing necessary technology and tailored supports to prepare students for postsecondary success in the growing green economy.

The Vista Charter Public Schools Orange County Consortium (VCPSOCC) is enhancing its Career Technical Education (CTE) offerings through a comprehensive work plan focused on Curriculum and Instruction and College and Career Exploration. The consortium will implement a structured 7-14 CTE pathway in Environmental Resources, including dual enrollment certificate programs in sustainability-related fields, supported by teacher professional development and partnerships with local community colleges. Targeted supports such as bilingual instructional aides, specialized instruction for students with disabilities, and provision of student devices aim to increase access and success for English Learners, students eligible for free/reduced meals, Hispanic students, and students with disabilities. The plan also includes expanding project-based learning, integrating environmental science curricula, and establishing Career Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) like Future Farmers of America to build leadership and engagement. Expected outcomes include increased dual enrollment participation and certification completion, improved graduation rates, and higher teacher training participation, with ongoing collaboration between K-12 and college partners to sustain and refine these initiatives.