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District presents DCAP updates, aims for 90% Diploma +1 completion and expanded work-based learning
Summary
The district outlined its District Career and Academic Plan (DCAP), described a range of career-connected learning activities and reported progress including 87% Diploma +1 completion for the Class of 2023 and 1,291 work-based learning experiences. The plan will be submitted to Green Hills AEA for evaluation and later the state.
District staff presented the Council Bluffs Community School District's annual District Career and Academic Plan (DCAP), which the district says aligns with state requirements and focuses on career-connected learning and postsecondary readiness.
Kathy Schmieding, coordinator of career and technical education, told the board the DCAP is tied to the district's strategic goal of ensuring each student graduates with a high school diploma and a second credential (the district calls this "diploma plus 1"). Schmieding said the DCAP and the individual career and academic plans (ICAPs) guide student self-understanding, career exploration, postsecondary planning and reflection, and that the district provides multiple supports including advisory lessons, 1-on-1 counselor meetings, career fairs, FAFSA nights and college visits.
The presentation reviewed recent outcomes: the Class of 2023 achieved 87% completion of diploma plus 1 and the district documented 1,291 work-based learning experiences. Schmieding said the district has added pathways including biomedical sciences and aviation and is emphasizing industry-recognized credentials (IRCs) and partnerships with local employers and organizations. She highlighted collaborations with the Chamber of Commerce, Advanced Southwest Iowa, Iowa Western and the Council Bluffs Public Library among others.
Schmieding said evaluation of the DCAP is performed by Green Hills AEA and the Iowa Department of Education; the district's prior score was above regional averages. Next steps include formal submission to Green Hills AEA and an evaluation over the summer. The DCAP will return to the board for a resolution after that regional/state review.
Board members and a parent praised the work, noting middle-school career exploration labs and the district's structured 6'8 grade elective that exposes students to career pathways. One board member asked about ongoing review of curriculum to identify new IRC opportunities; staff said the CTE team and regional partners review options and coordinate with Iowa Western where appropriate.
No formal vote occurred on the DCAP during the workshop; the plan will be submitted for review and then brought back to the board for formal approval.
