1. Cross-sector partnerships;

2. Alignment with high wage, in-demand regional labor market information;

3. Links between secondary and postsecondary education with multiple entry and exit points;

4. Credentials and degrees with value in the labor market;

5. Integration of rigorous academics and career-focused learning;

6. Strong college and career advising, and counseling supports; and

7. Continuum of work-based learning experiences. 

The first cohort of students started in the pathway in the Fall of 2022. We are excited about moving forward to expand and strengthen programmatic goals and outcomes that will build on the momentum that has been generated through our strong collaborative partnerships. Through this effort, we will create pathways for students that go beyond entry-level jobs and guide them toward a pathway where they will be able to choose their own “off ramp”, which includes advanced education and training. Together, our work will result in a brighter future for our students.

CTRAC is currently part of a larger initiative called the Falls County Rural Collaborative (FCRC) whose goal is to provide authentic learning experiences that equip students to be lifelong learners, empowering them to become skilled in career areas of their choice aligned to regional workforce needs. In this collaborative, participating rural schools share resources like staff, facilities, and transportation to offer more college and career pathways than each could do alone.