District presents annual review of Career and Academic Plan; Xello adopted for ICAP tracking

Urbandale staff presented the district’s annual review of the District Career and Academic Plan (DCAP), the mandated plan addressing grades eight through twelve under Iowa law.

Michelle (director of teaching; last name not specified) and Joni Wagner, work-based learning facilitator, described a year of planning work that engaged 35 participants across pre-K–12 staff, administrators and community and industry partners. Staff organized work under three outcome areas — life ready, career ready and college ready — and used multiple data sources (attendance, concurrent-enrollment, GPA, FAFSA completion) to identify root causes and propose interventions.

Key points from the presentation: - Structure and stakeholders: Three cross-level committees and a district leadership team guided drafts; community and industry partners provided feedback and the School Improvement Advisory Committee reviewed portions of the plan. - Earlier goals and progress: Most prior-year goals were attained or are in progress. The main remaining item reported in progress was the fuller incorporation of Xello into all classrooms for ICAP work. - Xello adoption: The district has moved from Naviance to Xello for ICAP tracking and four-year plans. Staff reported improved student participation and ability for parents in grades 8–12 to view and sign four-year plans digitally. - Five DCAP components: Self-understanding, career information, career exploration, postsecondary exploration and decision supports, and district integration. Staff reported ongoing work to create grade-level progressions, measurable outcomes and stronger business/internship connections.

Ending: Staff said a draft of the DCAP will be finalized before the March submission deadline and that the leadership team will continue to refine scaffolding, inclusivity and career-connected learning experiences.