ElevateEdAZ, an initiative of the Greater Phoenix Chamber Foundation, announced its expansion into the Peoria Unified School District.

ElevateEdAZ is focused on preparing Valley students for college and careers by aligning education to workforce learning pathways to serve the needs of Arizona industries, a press release explains. The goal is to help local business owners meet workforce demand as more high-wage, high-demand employers expand in and relocate to Arizona.

“Our educators have been providing Peoria Unified students with extensive work-based learning opportunities with local partners, but ElevateEdAZ will accelerate these connections to build upon our network,” PUSD Acting Superintendent Kevin Molino stated. “Additionally, externships for our educators will allow them to stay current on industry trends and expand their skill set, all for the benefit of our students.”

Expanding ElevateEdAZ to Peoria Unified brings the number of participating schools to 20 throughout the Valley. The expansion will impact more than 12,000 students and teachers through access to work-based learning engagements, job shadows, internships, externships, mock interviews, and more.

"Providing students exposure to different career pathways and opportunities to gain real-world experience is essential for students striving to secure high-wage, high-demand careers,” Jennifer Mellor, Greater Phoenix Chamber Foundation chief innovation officer, stated.

Visit www.elevateedaz.com/business.