Academic and Career Planning

What is Academic and Career Planning (ACP)? 

Academic and Career Planning (ACP) is a process where students take the lead in shaping their future, with guidance and support from adults along the way.

Through ACP, students learn more about their interests, strengths, and potential career options. They do this by exploring who they are, looking into different careers, and building planning skills that help them make thoughtful choices about what comes after high school.

ACP is for meant for EVERY student. 

That includes students with disabilities who have IEPs and transition plans, students with Section 504 plans, English Learners, Gifted and Talented students, and those experiencing homelessness or involved in neglect or delinquency situations.

The goal is for students to earn a diploma with purpose, not just by going through the motions. We support this by helping students build strong connections with trusted adults, learn how to adjust to challenges and opportunities, and start shaping their own path toward a successful future.

How can families stay engaged in the ACP process? 

Families are a key part of the ACP process. They’re encouraged to look over their child’s plan and have conversations about interests, strengths, and possible opportunities. Those discussions help students make more thoughtful choices that connect to their goals for the future.

Do students need to choose a careerpath early on? 

No. Students are not expected to pick a career in 6th grade.

ACP is a time for students to learn more about who they are and explore how their interests and strengths might connect to different opportunities and careers. Staff, families, community members, and students all play a role in supporting that exploration.

As students move through middle and high school, their plans are revisited and adjusted so they can continue making thoughtful choices about what comes next.

Can a student change their mind? 

That’s completely normal. ACP is built to help students explore and learn as their interests and skills grow over time. Students are encouraged to revisit and adjust their plans as they gain new experiences.

Changing direction is a natural part of the process and helps students make more informed choices about their future.