Kearney R-I staff outline CTE pathways, partnerships and goal to have all graduates earn a market-value credential
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Summary
District staff presented Career and Technical Education pathways at the Kearney R-I board meeting, describing programs (agriculture, business, health sciences, PLTW, biomed), partnership centers and a goal for graduates to earn industry credentials or "MBAs" (market-value assets).
A district staff presenter summarized Career and Technical Education (CTE) offerings and goals, telling the board the district emphasizes "real-world learning" and aims for every graduate to earn at least one market-value asset (MBA) such as an industry credential, internship or college credit.
The presenter said CTE pathways at the high school include agriculture, business and marketing, family and consumer sciences, Project Lead The Way (engineering, health and business pathways), technology and biomed, and cooperative education opportunities. Staff highlighted partnerships with Excelsior Springs Area Career Center, Northland Career Center and Northland CAPS for many programs and said some students split time between the high school and partner centers.
Staff said the district measures CTE impact by counting industry-recognized credentials, internships, entrepreneurship experiences and college credits. The district reported capping some partner programs to ensure fit and manage costs but said it is expanding in-house options where certified teachers can provide dual credit and credentialing.
Board members asked about matching student demand to available opportunities, the role of client-connected projects tailored to student interests, and prospects for adding AI- and robotics-related coursework. Staff said they would gather demand data and work with Career Readiness Coordinator Emmy Berry to map opportunities, noting a planned June review of practices.