MULTIPLE DELIVERY MODES
Start College Now and Youth Apprenticeship coursework can be
taken in traditional, in person format with NWTC faculty, as well as
other delivery modes. Other delivery modes are designed to give
the learner another way to pursue their education and realize their
dreams without having to travel to class. Online learning allows
students with internet access to participate in NWTC coursework.
Web-conferencing creates virtual meeting patterns for coursework
for students with internet access. Distance Learning brings NWTC
classes to many area high schools. Through the use of technology,
schools have the capability to receive NWTC credit classes, as well
as share and receive coursework with other high schools. Blended
courses might mix in person offerings with any of the above
alternate modes. By taking advantage of all these delivery modes,
schools can better enhance curriculum offered to their students.
TECH NOW is the branding mechanism used to describe the
NWTC/K-12 partnerships that focus on collaborative career
pathway offerings which lead students toward a higher credential
and a career that relates to labor market needs. Our collaborative
districts are usually further branded with a region specific title
often paired with Regional Technical Academy. This name provides
the community a frame of reference to identify both the K-12 and
community/adult learning opportunities that exist.
Relationship Development & Initiation of Dual Credit Agreements
In Fall of each ye ar, all 32 Districts receive a
partnership folder. The partnership folder contains
the annual Pathways to College report, labor
market information, other college publications and
specific data pieces tailored to each District. After
school districts review the information provided,
meetings between NWTC K-12 Relations Team and
each District Superintendent, Principal and other
appropriate parties take place. The information
shared is a premise for discussion of partnership
development and partnership enhancements with
a geared focus on career pathway development.
This pathway development can encompass a
variety of curriculum products and dual credit
approaches that support the pathway. For
instance, a pathway can include all or just one
form(s) of dual credit:
Advanced Standing, Transcripted Credit, Start
College Now and Youth Apprenticeship. Although
these courses are offered at the high school level,
strategies on supporting the career pathway
development in K-8 are also discussed. Once
Districts agree upon a career pathway focus,
additional work is completed to prepare for the
implementation of the pathway. This work may
include lab assessments and recommendations,
further advisory or consultation from business/
industry and additional connections with NWTC
and high school faculty and counseling staff.
Meanwhile, the school district administration is
responsible for continuing to drive, promote and
support the launch and/or maintenance of the
TECH NOW partnership. NWTC K-12 Relations
Team and the college community will also provide
support and resources available to further
enhance opportunities at the K-12 level through
these partnerships.
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