College and Career Readiness Week helps students imagine their futures

What could I become? District 131 students will explore that question during the first College and Career Readiness Week of the school year, Oct. 5-9.

Students from early childhood through high school will learn about careers, discover their interests and connect their classroom learning with possibilities for the future.

“College and career readiness is not something that begins in high school,” said Nakita Stewart, director of college and career readiness. “It is a journey that starts with helping young students discover their interests, strengths, talents, and possibilities for the future.”

Each school will plan activities suited to its students’ ages. Activities may include career dress-up days, college spirit days, guest speakers, books about careers, trivia and classroom decorations. Students may also explore colleges and careers in their community.

Teachers can make those connections during everyday lessons. A math lesson might introduce jobs that use numbers. A science lesson might introduce careers in science, technology or engineering. A story might help younger children discover different jobs.

“Our goal is to build excitement, curiosity, and a sense of possibility around college, careers, and life after graduation,” Stewart said.

For younger children, preparing for the future begins with learning about themselves, discovering careers and building skills. Elementary and middle school students can explore their interests and strengths while learning how school connects to future opportunities.

In high school, students can use those experiences to make decisions about classes and life after graduation. Options include college, job training, military service and opportunities to gain experience in the workplace.

“The goal is to make college and career exploration visible, engaging, and connected to everyday learning,” Stewart said.

The next College and Career Readiness Week will take place March 15-19, 2027. The district plans to increase the number of weeks each year, giving students more opportunities to explore and prepare for their futures.

Download College & Career Week Flyer (PDF)

Descargar folleto de la Semana de Preparación Universitaria y Profesional (PDF)