Bridging the Gap: Empowering Students with Career and Technical Education from Elementary to Employment

Wednesday, February 26, 2025

1:30 PM – 1:50 PM East Coast USA Time

Location: A705

Session Type: Contributed Talk

Presenter(s)

Amy Heflin (she/her/hers)

Senior Manager, Curriculum Development
FlexPoint and Florida Virtual School
Orlando, FL, United States
Jaimi Gruler

Senior Manager, Curriculum Development
FlexPoint and Florida Virtual School
Orlando, FL, United States

Abstract Description : Every student, regardless of age, gender, race, or socio-economic background, should have the opportunity to connect with learning that excites them and meets them where they are. Introducing students to soft or durable skills, starting early, leads them to succeed both in life and the workforce. The employment landscape is ever-changing, so now more than ever, it’s critical that we prepare students for careers in current and emerging professions. Beginning in elementary grades, and continuing into middle and high grades, we can set students up for success through exposure to CTE courses and experiences. Prepare your students today for the careers of tomorrow!

If someone was doing a search for your session in the program what 5 words might they use to search for and find your session.: CTE, workforce, agency, employment, careers
Learning Objectives:
Upon completion, participants will be able to implement strategies for teaching career and education skills into their elementary, middle, and high school curriculum.
Upon completion, participants will be able to assist students with gaining employability skills, such as durable skills, internship opportunities, and industry certifications.
Upon completion, participants can close their school's gender, race, age, and socio-economic gaps in preparing students for life beyond K-12, whatever that might look like.