STEM nights and community events bring local employers into schools, allowing students to interact directly with professionals from organizations such as Stryker, Pfizer, MDOT, and other regional employers. These experiences help students see how classroom learning connects to future careers and introduce them to opportunities they may not otherwise encounter. PATHWAYS THROUGH SECONDARY EDUCATION As students advance into middle and high school, Portage Public Schools expands the menu of pathways available to them. The district’s International Baccalaureate and Advanced Placement programs provide rigorous academic preparation for students pursuing selective universities, while dual enrollment options allow students to earn college credit during high school with district financial support. Early Middle College takes that concept further. Through a five-year high school experience, students can graduate with both a high school diploma and up to an associate degree—at little to no cost to families. The financial and academic impact of that opportunity is significant, particularly for students who may otherwise face barriers to post-secondary education. Career and Technical Education plays an equally vital role. Portage students participate in a countywide CTE center housed in a new, state-of-the-art facility opened this fall. The $80 million center was made possible by a transformational $100 million anonymous donation, underscoring the community’s belief in career readiness and skilled trades. Students attending the CTE center split their day between their home high school and the technical campus, gaining hands-on experience, industry credentials, and exposure to high-demand fields. Many programs include co-op placements and employer partnerships, allowing students to earn Custodial Services Since 1915 800.441.4463 www.grbsinc.com We Care About Positively Impacting Those We Serve 366 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 07, ISSUE 01
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