District expands student internships in culinary arts cybersecurity and graphic design

On April 23, 2025, the Chandler Unified School District (CUSD) Governing Board convened to discuss significant developments in student internship programs aimed at enhancing post-secondary readiness. The meeting highlighted the district's commitment to preparing students for the workforce by expanding internship opportunities across various fields.

During the session, Mr. Brown reported a notable increase in internship placements, rising from 23 placements in the previous year to 30 this year. This growth reflects a strategic shift towards high-demand program areas such as culinary arts, cybersecurity, engineering, graphic design, and film and television. These sectors were identified based on labor market data indicating strong future job prospects, allowing students to gain valuable experience in fields that are actively hiring.

The discussion also addressed challenges faced in the internship program, particularly concerning liability issues for students under 18. Parents expressed concerns about their children's readiness for formal work environments. To mitigate these issues, the district is working closely with local businesses to clarify liability concerns and ensure that students are adequately prepared for internships. Additionally, the district is exploring remote work opportunities to accommodate students with busy schedules, allowing them to engage in project-based work that fits around their extracurricular commitments.

Another key point of discussion was the focus of the new M.I.C.E. program, which targets 11th and 12th graders, primarily within Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. This initiative aims to ensure that students possess the necessary technical skills and industry credentials before entering the workforce. By concentrating on CTE students, the district can guarantee that participants are adequately prepared for their roles, thereby enhancing the quality of the internship experience.

The meeting concluded with an emphasis on the importance of community partnerships and teacher support in facilitating these internship opportunities. As the district continues to expand its programs, it remains committed to providing equitable access for all students, ensuring that those interested in internships can participate regardless of their background or prior experience.

Overall, the discussions at the Chandler USD Governing Board meeting underscore a proactive approach to workforce readiness, reflecting the district's dedication to equipping students with the skills and experiences necessary for success in their future careers. The anticipated next steps include further development of partnerships and continued evaluation of program effectiveness to meet the evolving needs of students and the local job market.