This summer, I returned to the Idaho Workforce Development Council (WDC) for my second externship with them and third overall. This time around, my focus was on reviewing key tools used by educators and families—like the Idaho Counselor and Parent Playbook, Next Steps Idaho’s Video – Resource Libraries- Curriculum, and the Idaho LAUNCH page. My job was to evaluate what materials are still relevant, what needed updating, and how to better align everything by grade level.

The goal was to strengthen these resources so they remain clear, useful, and accessible. I was able to complete detailed reviews and provide recommendations to help make them more impactful.

This experience gave me a deeper understanding of how statewide resources are built and maintained—and how important it is for those of us working in schools to identify and utilize these resources. It’s made me more intentional in how I share information with students and families and has reinforced the importance of strong collaboration between policy and practice.

Grateful to the WDC team for another summer of meaningful work and growth.

Grade Level and Subject Taught: 10th-12th College and Career Counselor