pursuing a career as a physical therapist, they may have work-based learning experience in a PT’s office or at a rehabilitation office in town.” Vocational pathways serve students with diverse interests and aptitudes.“If they’re interested in being a welder through our vocational program, they may have the opportunity to co-operate with one of the local welding companies here in our community,” Dr. Angel notes. The small community size facilitates these connections, allowing students to explore careers through summer jobs and traditional teen employment alongside formal co-op arrangements. Post-secondary preparation statistics highlight the program’s effectiveness. Over 80% of high school students engage in their post-secondary pathway, with roughly 40% participating in dual enrollment college courses through Jackson College while completing Grass Lake High School classes. Another 40% participate in the career center, pursuing vocational fields including nursing, law enforcement, welding, fire safety, cosmetology, and dental technology. “We’re really proud of our pathways here in Grass Lake affording students the ability to learn alongside them so that they feel prepared to enter the workforce or college post-graduation,” Dr. Angel emphasizes. The district already offers a law enforcement curriculum for junior and senior level students, building on partnerships with local agencies and preparing students for public service careers. SUPPORTING EVERY STUDENT’S JOURNEY Comprehensive student support addresses the whole child, with services spanning emotional, behavioral, and educational needs. “We do believe in the importance in the development of supporting the whole child,” Dr. Angel states. “At the secondary level, we do have counselors and social workers. I’m working on a grant right now for a school success coordinator that’s going to support our students specific to the secondary level.” Professional development operates on a systematic 207 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 10 GRASS LAKE COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
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