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Expanding Learning Experiences for Student Success

Brooklyn Center Community Schools (BCCS) is building new opportunities for high school students to engage in courses and experiences that best fit their needs and interests.

Brooklyn Center Community Schools (BCCS) is building new opportunities for high school students to engage in courses and experiences that best fit their needs and interests. These new courses and opportunities will be focused on career technical education (CTE) pathways at each of our secondary sites: Brooklyn Center Secondary STEAM, the Early College Academy, and Insight Online School of Minnesota. 

These courses and experiences include high-demand fields such as healthcare, information technology, engineering, and business. Students can explore specific clusters within these fields, such as:

  • Health Science: Courses in therapeutic services, biotechnology, and health support services, preparing students for roles in healthcare.
  • Arts, Audio/Video Technology, and Communications: Opportunities to delve into performing arts, visual arts, and telecommunications, allowing students to explore creative and technical careers.
  • Manufacturing: Hands-on learning in production, engineering, and maintenance, offering insights into careers in manufacturing and logistics.
  • Human Services, Law, and Public Safety: Courses in family and community services, mental health support, early childhood development, and legal services or law enforcement, preparing students for roles in counseling, social work, public safety, and related fields.
  • Information Technology: Classes in programming, software development, and network systems, equipping students for technology careers.

“We want students to be able to experience and see themselves in a variety of futures in order to help them both plan for and work towards their goals,” said Jena Carlson, Director of Curriculum and Instruction. “Opportunities like this will expand students’ access to future careers and professions that are available to them after graduation.”

These experiences provide flexibility in scheduling and diverse learning options, ensuring that students can tailor their education to their interests and career goals. Whether they are interested in health science, engineering, or the creative arts, BCCS offers a variety of CTE options that allow students to gain real-world experience.

Over the next five years, the district plans to continue expanding and refining this program to meet the evolving needs of our students and community. This includes forging partnerships with local businesses and colleges, offering internships and dual credit opportunities, and staying aligned with industry trends to ensure students are job-ready upon graduation.

“One of the goals with these experiences is to connect students with local professionals. It will provide students greater access to technical certifications opportunities and learning environments outside of the traditional classroom,” said Ellen Morehouse, Curriculum, Instruction, and STEAM Coordinator. 

Our community schools framework already sets us up for success. As a Community School District, we have a growing set of partnerships with community organizations that support the academic, social and emotional, and physical development of students and families, empowering them to become caring and responsible citizens at home and in the world. 

“This Tri-Campus Model, along with our current community partnerships, will enhance our students’ learning opportunities,” said Seth Ryan, Director of Community Engagement. 

If voters approve the Nov. 5 ballot question, some of the funds raised would support the continued development and implementation of these programs, creating even more opportunities for our students to explore their passions and gain real-world experience. Learn more on our 2024 Referendum web page.