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 year, 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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