My Future: College & Career Readiness

Career exploration is the process of learning about yourself and the world of work to make informed decisions about your future. It involves identifying your interests, strengths, and values, and then matching them with potential career paths. Through career and technical education courses, internships, and certificate programs students gain hands-on experience and can earn industry-recognized credentials – preparing them for their future careers.

Career Exploration & Preparation

High school graduation includes three components: required course credits, completion of a High School and Beyond Plan, and a Graduation Pathway. For each student, their path to graduation is personalized and should help them reach their future goals.

Learn more about Graduation Requirements

The High School and Beyond Plan is a Washington State graduation requirement and helps students get the most out of high school while preparing for their future. Students work with school teams starting in middle school to create their own personalized plan with goals for high school and beyond. 

Seventh & Eighth Grade

Ninth Grade

Tenth Grade

Eleventh Grade

Twelfth Grade

Running Start is a statewide partnership between colleges and local high schools. The program allows high school juniors and seniors to attend the college tuition-free and have the credits count for both high school and college credit. College credits are paid for by the high school, saving families money as students begin their college careers. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT RUNNING START

For many students, a two or four-year college will help them achieve their career goals. Planning for college starts long before high school graduation. Beyond paying attention to academics, the path to college involves taking the right high school courses, exploring your career interests, visiting colleges, and applying to colleges that are a good fit. Here you will find resources and information to help students and families.

College Readiness

Helping students become career-ready involves empowering them with the skills, experiences, and support they need to succeed in the workforce. This includes a combination of academic knowledge, practical hands-on training, and opportunities to explore various careers through CTE courses, internships, mentorships, certification programs, and real-world projects.

Career Readiness