ConnectED

Why? To take back these real-world-rooted learnings and plan next steps for their own districts. Our Experiential Site Visits exist for the same reason we give students opportunities to engage in real-world learning: If you can’t see it, you can’t be it.

Starting next week, ESV attendees will tour four NKC high schools to see the work of career-connected learning in action. They’ll meet directly with district leaders and will participate in collaborative deep-dive sessions that drive instructional transformation.

He emphasizes the power of teamwork: "It’s important that everyone is involved to create a successful initiative." Discover how group participation can lead to successful outcomes in your own district.

Meet Arnel Dela Cruz, who has attended several Experiential Site Visits to gain insight into effective pathway implementation.

Participants from past visits describe the experience as “amazing,” “inspirational,” and “informative,” often pointing to the pride and professionalism of NKC students and staff.

→ Designed learning that blends academics, technical instruction, and real work‑based experiences. → Scaled this model across a large district of comprehensive neighborhood schools.

What does it look like when an entire district commits to a unified, collaborative approach to college and career pathways? NKC Schools is about to show it again. This year’s Experiential Site Visit offers a fresh, up‑close look at a system that’s fully aligned and delivering.

NKC Schools knew this vision required a new kind of high school, one where every student can explore real interests, apply their learning, and chart a clear path toward their future. And that work is now well underway.

Through collaboration with local businesses and educators, they developed the Portrait of a Graduate, a shared vision of essential attributes needed for future readiness. This initiative aims to implement programs that connect students with real-world experiences.

A district ready for change: five years ago, NKC Schools embarked on a journey that began with a question, “How do we ensure every student leaves high school with the skills, experiences, and confidence needed to succeed in college, career, and life?” nkcschools.org/district/dept/…

"What an amazing experience and a fantastic opportunity! Thank you for your wonderful work in facilitating this event. I am truly impressed and inspired to bring this back to our school." - Past NKC Experiential Site Visit Participant

Join us for the North Kansas City Experiential Site Visit! March 10-12, 2026; The last day to register is Wednesday 3/4/26.

The day was filled with inspiring keynotes, career panels, workshops, and an open mic! The Creative Careers Leadership Lab produced the event, and it was the first of its kind in Oakland! Previous GRID Summits have only been held in LA. Oakland pathways are on the move!

Congratulations, OUSD! On February 19th, over 200 OUSD students from Arts, Entertainment, and Design CTE programs in middle and high schools gathered at Oakstop and the California Ballroom for the GRID Creativity Summit. @OUSDNews

True equity requires more than a statement—it requires a partnership. This initiative is proof that regional collaboration can move the needle on student outcomes. Check out the full story here: youtube.com/watch?v=SPQdWT…

🛠️ The Workforce Connection: By aligning high school curriculum with actual regional economic needs, they are creating a seamless transition from the classroom to the professional world.

How do we ensure every student has a clear path to a high-wage, high-demand career? In the Great Lakes region, the answer is "together." #Education #Equity #WorkforceDevelopment #GreatLakes #CareerPathways #NonprofitLeadership