Exploration
We work to expand access to exploration opportunities for all students. We believe that middle school is the ideal time to expose students to activities that help them explore their skills and talents, experiment with interests, and start to plan for the future.
However, many structural barriers exist to implementing exploration programming. American Student Assistance supports key legislative priorities to increase college and career exploration in our nation’s schools.
The Problem
Lack of access to career exploration
Students lack access to career exploration activities, and schools face barriers implementing new programs. Lack of funding, inadequate training of teachers and counselors, and limited support from school administration creates structural barriers to expansion of career exploration
Our Solution
Fund career
exploration
(1) Increase federal appropriations for the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act (Perkins V) and (2) include middle school career exploration in Perkins V State Plans (3) Commitment from states to expand career exploration to middle schools
Our Solution
Increase career and college exposure
Increase access to and funding for programs like Early College, Dual Enrollment, and Massachusetts Innovation Pathways that give students the opportunity to build understanding of their interests and aptitudes
Our Solution
Increase school personnel training
(1) Increase education, training and support for teachers and counselors on topics of college and career readiness. (2) increase funding to establish dedicated college and career counselors in middle and high schools
Understanding Middle and High School Students’ Attitudes Toward Future Plans
Research to understand how today’s youth are approaching education and career exploration as they find their way through middle school and high school.
Learn MoreOur Work
ISSUE BRIEFS
AND RESOURCES
TESTIMONY AND
LEGISLATIVE INPUT
ASA regularly provides testimony and legislative input to federal and state lawmakers as they debate important legislation around college and career exploration and preparedness
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