Indiana has launched an innovative initiative to enhance career and technical education (CTE) across the state. Known as Next Level Programs of Study (NLPS), this program aims to bring consistency, quality, and intentionality to CTE instruction, ensuring students are well-prepared for future careers. Fully implemented in the 2022-2023 school year, NLPS represents a significant step forward in aligning education with workforce needs. This article provides a comprehensive overview of what the Career Next Program, or NLPS, entails, its benefits, and how it’s shaping career education in Indiana.
Key Components of the Next Level Programs of Study
The foundation of the Career Next Program lies in its structured approach to CTE. NLPS is built around Programs of Study, which are sequences of courses designed to provide students with in-depth knowledge and skills in specific career areas. These programs are not just a collection of courses; they are carefully curated pathways that connect secondary education with postsecondary opportunities and career demands.
4-Course Sequences
Each Next Level Program of Study is defined by a 4-course sequence. This structured approach ensures that students progress through a logical curriculum, building upon foundational knowledge in the initial courses to more specialized skills in the later courses. This intentional sequencing is designed to maximize learning and skill development, making graduates more competitive in the job market or better prepared for further education.
Alignment with Postsecondary Education
A crucial aspect of NLPS is its alignment with postsecondary education. Each NLPS course has been carefully mapped to courses at Indiana’s leading postsecondary institutions, Ivy Tech Community College and Vincennes University. This alignment facilitates smoother transitions for students who choose to pursue higher education after completing a CTE program. Furthermore, many NLPS courses offer dual credit opportunities, allowing students to earn college credit while still in high school, reducing the time and cost of higher education.
Standards and Competencies
To ensure quality and consistency, NLPS is built upon clearly defined course standards and competencies. These standards outline what students should know and be able to do upon completion of each course within a Program of Study. By focusing on competencies, NLPS emphasizes practical skills and real-world application of knowledge, making education more relevant and valuable for students’ future careers.
Benefits of Implementing Next Level Programs of Study
The Career Next Program offers numerous benefits for students, educators, and the broader community in Indiana.
For Students:
- Career Clarity: NLPS helps students explore different career paths and gain a deeper understanding of various industries. The structured Programs of Study allow students to focus their learning on areas that genuinely interest them and align with their career aspirations.
- Enhanced Skills and Knowledge: Through the 4-course sequences, students develop in-depth knowledge and practical skills that are highly valued by employers. This focused approach leads to greater competency and career readiness.
- Postsecondary and Career Pathways: NLPS bridges the gap between high school and future opportunities. The alignment with postsecondary courses and dual credit options provides a clear pathway to further education. Simultaneously, the development of job-ready skills prepares students to enter the workforce directly after graduation.
- Consistency and Quality Education: NLPS ensures a consistent and high-quality CTE experience across Indiana. Standardized curriculum and competencies mean that students, regardless of their location in the state, receive comparable and valuable career education.
For Educators and Institutions:
- Structured Curriculum Framework: NLPS provides a clear and structured framework for CTE curriculum development and implementation. This framework simplifies planning and ensures that programs are aligned with state standards and industry needs.
- Improved Program Quality and Relevance: By focusing on standards, competencies, and industry alignment, NLPS helps educators create more relevant and effective CTE programs that truly prepare students for the future.
- Resources and Support: The Indiana Commission for Higher Education provides numerous resources and support documents to assist schools and career centers in implementing NLPS effectively. This includes planning guides, review documents, and FAQs, making the transition smoother and more manageable.
For the Community and Economy:
- Workforce Development: By aligning education with workforce demands, NLPS contributes to developing a skilled workforce in Indiana. Graduates of these programs are better equipped to meet the needs of local industries, strengthening the state’s economy.
- Increased Employability: NLPS enhances the employability of Indiana’s students. The focus on practical skills and industry-relevant knowledge makes NLPS graduates attractive candidates for employers.
- Economic Growth: A well-prepared workforce is a driver of economic growth. By improving CTE and producing skilled graduates, NLPS plays a vital role in fostering economic prosperity in Indiana.
Implementing NLPS: Key Resources and Guidance
To facilitate the successful implementation of NLPS, the Indiana Commission for Higher Education has provided a range of resources and guidance documents. These resources are designed to assist schools, career centers, and educators in understanding and adopting the Next Level Programs of Study.
NLPS Review Document
The NLPS Review Document is a comprehensive guide that offers a detailed overview of each Next Level Program of Study. It includes information on the 4-course sequences, course standards and competencies, alignment with postsecondary courses at Ivy Tech and Vincennes, and dual credit eligibility. This document is regularly updated to ensure accuracy and relevance, making it an essential reference for anyone involved in NLPS implementation.
CTE Course Titles and Descriptions
The CTE Course Titles and Descriptions document provides detailed information on all CTE courses available within the NLPS framework. This includes course titles, descriptions, prerequisites, recommended grades, and other important details. This document is crucial for curriculum planning and student course selection.
NLPS Planning Guide
The NLPS Planning Guide is specifically designed to assist schools and career centers in strategically implementing NLPS. It includes a comparison of the previous CTE system with NLPS, an overview of the NLPS course structure, rubrics for pathway selection, and scheduling options. This guide is a practical tool for institutions to effectively integrate NLPS into their educational offerings.
Master Pathways List
The Master Pathways List provides a quick reference to all available NLPS pathways for a given school year. It allows educators and administrators to easily identify the Programs of Study and the course options within each pathway. This document is particularly useful for program planning and ensuring comprehensive CTE offerings.
NLPS Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The NLPS FAQ document addresses common questions regarding the transition to NLPS and general CTE inquiries. It serves as a valuable resource for clarifying any uncertainties and providing readily accessible answers to frequently asked questions.
CTE Career Guide
The CTE Career Guide is a student-friendly resource that provides an overview of Next Level Programs of Study and other relevant CTE information. Designed for students, parents, and counselors, it offers insights into career pathways, work-based learning, and graduation pathways within the CTE framework.
Staying Informed and Getting Support
Staying up-to-date with the latest information on Career Next Programs and CTE in Indiana is crucial for effective implementation and participation. Subscribing to the CTE Newsletter is a recommended way to receive updates and news directly from the Indiana Commission for Higher Education.
For specific questions or requests related to Next Level Programs of Study, the CTE team can be contacted directly at [email protected]. This dedicated email address serves as a central point of contact for any inquiries, ensuring timely and accurate responses.
Conclusion
The Career Next Program, or Next Level Programs of Study, represents a significant advancement in career and technical education in Indiana. By focusing on structured Programs of Study, aligning with postsecondary education, and emphasizing industry-relevant skills, NLPS is preparing students for successful careers and contributing to a stronger Indiana workforce. For educators, students, and anyone interested in the future of career education, understanding and engaging with NLPS is essential. By utilizing the available resources and staying informed, stakeholders can maximize the benefits of this transformative initiative and help shape the next level of career success in Indiana.
