Academic and Career Planning, or ACP, is a student-driven, adult-supported process in which students create and cultivate their own unique and information -based visions for post-secondary success, obtained through self-exploration, career exploration, and the development of career and management and planning skills.
The term ACP refers to both a process that helps students engage in academic and career development activities, as well as a product that is created and maintained for students’ academic, career and personal advancement.
It is an ongoing process to actively engage students to develop an understanding of self, create a vision for the future, develop individual goals and prepare a personal plan for achieving the vision and goals.
4 Stages to Successful ACP
Self Awareness (KNOW)
This stage of Academic and Career Planning is about students developing an awareness of self. Through collaborative conversations with parents, educators, and the community, students will have multiple opportunities to develop an understanding of their personal interests, skills, preferences, and aspirations so they can explore opportunities right for them.
Career Exploration (EXPLORE)
This stage is about students discovering and learning about the many academic and career opportunities available based on a foundational awareness and understanding of interests, skills, and strengths. This exploration stage will help students narrow down the options to further explore pathways that fit them best, so that they may begin planning a course of action.
Career Planning (PLAN)
The planning stage is all about connecting the dots from student’s short and long-term goals to what they need to know and do to successfully navigate after high school. The plan will help students take the appropriate courses, extracurriculars and experiences that will enhance each student’s plan. Throughout this stage, students will utilize Xello as well as other school-designated resources/tools to help them develop and document their academic and career plans.
Career Management (GO)
Remember, there is no wrong pathway to success, and through ACP we will ensure that all students travel the road to adulthood equipped with the knowledge, skills, and dispositions to be successful in tomorrow’s workforce.
As students gain experience, knowledge, and skills, they can reassess and change their plans.
Planning for the Future
During the four years of high school, students are establishing an educational foundation for their future. This may include immediate employment after completing high school, enlistment in one of the military services, or post-high school education or training. Factors that are important for each student’s future are:
- The selection of courses while in high school
- The grades received which determine the grade point average, the rigor of classes taken
- The attendance record that includes both absenteeism and tardiness
- The activities in which a student has participated, both in and outside of school; the personal recommendations of teachers, counselors, and administrators
Careful selection of high school courses is essential for students considering post-high school education, which may include colleges, technical schools, and military academies. Please carefully consider the following recommendations as they may affect your future plans.