The Career Explorations class, offered at all HUSD middle schools, is designed to give students hands-on experiences that foster a sense of belonging, self-awareness, and preparation for the future. The primary goal of the program is to help students gain valuable insights into potential career paths while providing interactive, real-world experiences. This year, students will participate in a career fair expo, featuring guest speakers and small projects aligned with classroom learning. There’s also an exciting leadership expo that introduces middle schoolers to SkillsUSA, a national nonprofit organization that helps students prepare for careers in technical, skilled, and service occupations offering a path for future leadership development.
This class introduces students to a variety of practical skills, including hands-on CPR, blood pressure measurement, coding with Python and HTML, and proficiency with Google Suite tools like spreadsheets and Google Sites. Additionally, students learn the safety and operation of hand and power tools.
Local industry partners are actively involved in the curriculum, providing feedback on student projects, field trips, and presentations. Both students and parents have responded positively to the class, with student interest growing rapidly. As more students explore career options early on, they are better prepared for advanced Career Technical Education (CTE) programs in high school, setting them on a strong path for future success.