Luigi Guzman, a third-year student at Des Moines Public Schools, is considering a career as a real estate agent, just like his mother. Her Perla Arce, also in her junior year, wants to learn how she can help her family with her year-old roofing project.
“Both of them are immigrants from Mexico and don’t really understand how the economy works here, so I was thinking about working with them,” Arce said.
The Central Campus of Des Moines Public Schools focuses on teaching high school students the work and technical skills that Guzmán and Arce can learn.
Helping students achieve their goals is what longtime business teacher Tim Brickley likes to do. New this year, he teaches investment and real estate classes.
“I’m excited to be able to help my students,” he said. “And it’s not just about finding a career path, it’s also about finding ways to help your family, help your friends, or help yourself.”
Guzman decided to take a real estate class to learn more about the industry, including basic terminology.
this Students were also offered classes in small business startups, social media marketing, content marketing, e-commerce entrepreneurship, and hospitality and tourism management for the new school year that started Wednesday in Des Moines.
The school offers classes in marine biology, engineering and industrial technology, transportation, agricultural sciences, and more. Classes are often paired with internships and apprenticeships.
Interim Superintendent Matt Smith said, “We put our children in a position to explore aspects of their future careers and see those interests and desires applied immediately for the rest of their lives. can do.
Tascha Brown, director of career and technical education and the Central Campus, said the school offers classes to prepare students to work in the health care industry and “had a huge waiting list.” I’m here.
In the spring, the school district and Des Moines Area Community College will work together to offer EMT classes.
“We really make sure that they not only have the technical skills, but they also have college credits and industry-recognized credentials.
‘We need to be more intentional’
Gov. Kim Reynolds’ Future-Ready Iowa Act of 2018 impacted class offerings. The initiative’s goal is to ensure that 70% of Iowans have at least high school training or education by 2025.
The initiative has also enabled funding for districts and the businesses and organizations with which they are affiliated.
“People[at Reynolds]have been very supportive of funding and getting more resources for both employers and schools to engage in these partnerships,” Brown said.
School districts don’t just want students to graduate, she said.
“We need to be more intentional about what the hopes, dreams and aspirations of our students, their families, and our community are. And the time they’re spending with us.” What really makes sure is to really set them up for the path they’ve chosen, rather than just following your schedule.”
Samantha Hernandez is responsible for educating the Register. Contact her at (515) 851-0982 or her [email protected]. Follow her on her Twitter. @svhernandez Or visit us on Facebook at facebook.com/svhernandezreporter.