Beyond College or Career: Building Future-Ready Pathways

Why should students have to choose between rigorous academics and real-world career experience? This poster presentation shares how a STEM-focused public high school reimagined college and career readiness by integrating Advanced Placement, STEM and Career Technical Education into one cohesive system. Through student voice, teacher innovation, strategic use of data and pathway alignment, the school connected AP coursework with programs in engineering, computer science, robotics, design, commercial art and digital media. The result was expanded access to advanced coursework, stronger engagement and a 75% increase in AP enrollment. Explore practical strategies for breaking down traditional silos, building staff support for pathway innovation and aligning rigorous academics with career-focused learning around a shared vision. You will leave with a practical framework, implementation ideas, planning tools and lessons learned that you can adapt to create more connected, relevant and equitable learning opportunities, integrating college and career readiness without sacrificing either.