Cross-sector partnerships are critical in building effective pathways that incorporate all key components and propel students to success. Partnerships include secondary and postsecondary education, workforce development, and employers.

Alignment with labor-market demand leads to jobs in high-wage, in-demand industries. Pathways are reverse mapped from industry to postsecondary to K-12 leveraging regional labor market information.

Links between secondary and postsecondary propel students to and through postsecondary education by seamlessly connecting secondary and postsecondary programs of study. Educators align curricula, integrate dual credit opportunities, and plan for articulation and transferability.  

Credentials with value in the labor market enable students to compete in the labor market by earning stackable and portable industry-recognized certifications.

Integration of rigorous academics and career-focused learning ensures that students can apply classroom learning in real-world settings. Students participate in advanced academic course options and educators integrate career-focused content into academic courses.

Effective advising ensures all students have individualized plans for education and careers. Students learn about a range of college and career options through a set of developmentally appropriate activities supported by trained counselors and advisors.

A continuum of work-based learning experiences prepares students for advancement along a career pathway by

completing purposeful tasks that develop academic, technical, and employability skills. Activities and experiences within the continuum include job shadowing, worksite tours, internships, and apprenticeships.