Nearly 90 middle school students from Arizona Virtual Academy and Insight Academy of Arizona recently participated in the schools’ six-week CTE Summer Bridge Program, led by administrator Erica Young-Jackson.

The program offered a hybrid introduction to an array of career and technical education pathways for middle schoolers. Each week, the program focused on a different CTE program, with students participating in virtual lessons from Monday to Thursday and engaging in hands-on activities like cookery and fingerprint analysis at the AZVA central office in Glendale on Fridays.

This blended learning model has provided students with a comprehensive understanding of the various CTE pathways available, from medical assisting and sports medicine to software and app design.

Strategic partnerships with organizations such as JA Inspire and Girls Who Code contributed valuable resources and expertise to enrich the learning experience. Students also received a virtual presentation by Girls Who Code.

The primary goal of the Summer Bridge Program’s was to increase awareness of CTE programs, drive enrollment and support student retention, particularly among underserved populations.

Combining middle school curiosity with high school opportunities, the program prepares students for future careers.