1. Career Academies: A 40-Year Proven Model for Improving College and Career Readiness November 4, 2009

2. 3 Key Elements of Career Academies A smaller learning community comprised of a group of students that take classes together, taught by an interdisciplinary team; College prep curriculum based on a career theme that helps students see relationships between academics and their application; Partnerships with employers, the community, and colleges, providing opportunities for internships and adult mentors.

3. Scope Approximately 60% of schools that received an SLC grant in years 2000-2004 used the funds for a career academy. (USED) 4,800 high schools reported having at least one career academy in 2004. (NCES/SSS) A reasonable estimate is that there are now about 1 million students in career academies nationwide.

4. Research – Education Outcomes Positive impacts on academic outcomes including attendance, earned credits, graduation rates, and college attendance rates. (various studies) In one study, the academies doubled the rate at which high-risk students completed a core academic curriculum raising the completion rate to 32 percent from 16 percent for the control group. (MDRC)

5. Research – Labor Market Outcomes Eight years after expected high school graduation, participation in a career academy increased post-high school employment rates and earnings without reducing the chances of going to college or completing a postsecondary credential. (MDRC) Income increased by an average of $132 per month in years 1-4 after expected high school graduation and $216 per month in years 5-8.

6. National Standards of Practice Defined Mission & Goals Academy Structure Host District and High School Faculty and Staff Professional Development Governance and Leadership Curriculum and Instruction Employer, Higher Education, and Community Involvement Student Assessment Cycle of Improvement

7. Recommendations Recognize career academies as a key reform strategy for college and career readiness Increase funding and resources Build the capacity of the system and of educators Improve quality