ACTE PACE Summit 2024

Discover how Adult Education serves as a vital link between postsecondary education, workforce development, and community colleges. Gain insights from our panel of experts who lead dynamic and innovative CTE feeder programs, driving tangible outcomes and empowering learners for success in the evolving job market.

Moderator:
Kristin Hempel, Director of Adult and Community Programs, EASTCONN, Coalition for Adult and Basic Education (COABE) Region 1 Representative
Panelists
Olivia De La Rosa, Director of Professional and Workforce Education, South Texas College
William Durden, Director for Basic Education for Adults (BEdA), Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges
Laurie Kierstead-Joseph, Acting Vice President of Pima Community College’s Adult Basic Education for College and Career Division.

Students at Chicago Public Schools (CPS) at all levels of qualifications struggle to navigate the daunting process of enrolling and persisting in college. In 2019, CPS and City Colleges of Chicago (CCC) created the Chicago Roadmap – an unprecedented partnership aimed at supporting students along a seamless path to and through college on the way to their chosen careers. Today, students have access to youth apprenticeships and an early college and CTE curriculum in high-demand career fields such as healthcare, manufacturing, IT and construction beginning their freshman year. Students also have the opportunity to earn up to 15 college credits and industry recognized certifications before graduating high school. CPS and CCC have transformed their relationship from a successful collaboration to full convergence. By expanding access to high-quality programs, advising and supports, they strive to dramatically and equitably increase student outcomes in postsecondary readiness, enrollment, persistence, degree attainment and employment.

Moderator:
Chandler Meyer-Brown, Director of CTE, Chicago Public Schools
Panelists:
Pedro Martinez, CEO, Chicago Public Schools
Juan Salgado, Chancellor, City Colleges of Chicago
Dr. Peggy Korellis, Vice Chancellor - High School Strategy, City College of Chicago
Bernadette Limos, Director of Chicago Roadmap,Chicago Public Schools

In today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape, the integration of equity, effective teaching practices, and student success has become paramount, particularly within Career and Technical Education (CTE). This presentation delves into the vital connections between these three elements, offering actionable insights for CTE practitioners dedicated to fostering inclusive and impactful learning environments. The session will explore how equitable access to resources, culturally responsive teaching methods, and targeted support services can bridge opportunity gaps and ensure that all students, regardless of background, are equipped to succeed in their chosen careers. We will examine practical strategies for implementing equity-focused teaching practices that not only enhance student engagement but also improve academic and career outcomes. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of how to create a CTE environment where teaching is aligned with students' diverse needs, leading to higher levels of student achievement and long-term career success.

Presenters:
Dr. Lorenzo Baber, Professor of Higher Education in the Department of Education, Organization, Policy and Leadership (EPOL); Director of the Office of Community College Research and Leadership (OCCRL)
Dr. Gianina Baker, Associate Director of evaluation, learning, and equitable assessment at the Office of Community College Research and Leadership (OCCRL)