This is my third summer Externing in the STEM program and it never fails to amaze me how much I learn that I can bring back to my students. This summer, I have had the privilege to work for Idaho’s Workforce Development’s Launch Program, which provides grants to graduating seniors to pursue in-demand careers. It also offers grants to adults making a career switch.

Throughout my Externship, I have learned about all the Idaho programs for career exploration and planning, as well as the resources available to educators, students, and parents. My first project this summer included looking at online resources, as well as counselor and parent Launch handbooks, to see how they can be utilized for middle school students, educators, and parents. The other major project was creating a career pathways resource to show students potential job opportunities from entry level positions to training and degree programs in Idaho. It will provide students with the ability to find programs in desired careers that they can use Launch money to pursue.

I also participated in the Idaho Workforce Development Council Meeting and the Idaho Indian Education Summit in June. These experiences allowed me to gain further insight into the needs of Idaho employers and to make valuable connections within the community, from vocational school directors to business leaders and legislators.

During the school year, I teach 8th grade Science and Aquatic Ecology. I plan to use the knowledge I’ve gained this summer to promote career opportunities to my students, which is especially important as they will be creating their own 4-year high school planners, which often include college preparatory and CTE courses. One big driver of fewer students entering STEM related fields is a lack of understanding of all the options. My plan is to show a career video every day during attendance, focusing on STEM professions as well as other occupations to allow for exposure and discussion. Another focus for all my students this coming year will be to align classroom expectations to work ready skills needed in future careers.

Grade Level and Subject Taught: 8th Grade Physical Science and Aquatic Ecology