Leaders say the success of Christian County’s new academy model will depend on continued collaboration between schools, businesses, and civic partners working together to build the local workforce.

Dayton Public Schools is implementing a plan to change classes at every grade level to ensure students graduate better prepared for success in the local job market.

As Virginia’s new secretary of education, Smith is committed to building bigger tables. “Together, we can advance a vision for a Commonwealth that is stronger, safer, and more affordable for all Virginians, ensuring that every learner has the opportunity to achieve and succeed,” he said.

Strong partnerships between employers, K‑12 schools, and higher education are essential for helping students understand evolving career paths and access real‑world learning opportunities.

Business, education, and civic leaders in Christian County, Kentucky are calling for deeper partnerships between the local school district and the business community to support the district’s new consolidated high school model focused on career-readiness. The leaders say collaboration between schools, employers, and community partners is crucial for student success and preparing the future workforce.

Eleven years ago, Utica Community Schools sent a group of educators to visit the Academies of Nashville, a high school model partnered with Ford Next Generation Learning to provide career-focused academies. When teacher, Mark LaCombe, got off the bus immediately following a tour of one of the Nashville schools, he excitedly asked Associate Principal, Alison Hildebrand, “When are we doing this?!” 

DPS is inching closer to being designated as a Ford Next Generation Learning district, which is expected to happen in March.

The Academies of Albuquerque is a districtwide high school redesign initiative that connects rigorous academics with career-connected learning and real-world experiences. Through themed academies and career pathways, students explore their interests, develop practical and academic skills, and graduate prepared for college, career and life.

Featured speaker Kimberly Fifer, a community coach for Ford Next Generation Learning, will discuss the importance of community engagement and partnerships between businesses and schools. Fifer has 26 years of experience in education, including service as an assistant superintendent, and has also served as a board member and president of the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce in DeKalb County, Indiana, according to the release.