Discussion:
In August 2014, the Shakopee School District approved a redesign of secondary education delivery for the district in partnership with Ford Next Generation Learning (NGL).
The partnership developed the Academies of Shakopee model which organized elective courses into six areas of programs of study:
Arts & Communication
Business & Entrepreneurship
Engineering & Manufacturing
Health Sciences
Human Services
Science & Technology
As part of the planning process for each academy, the district developed Industry Councils of experts within each field to provide feedback, design and implementation expertise. These included lawyers, accountants, entrepreneurs, engineers, medical professionals, CEO’s, lawmakers, and public servants. The City Administrator, Police Chief and Assistant Fire Chief among other city officials participated on these councils, and continue to do so.
On April 17, 2018, the City of Shakopee and the Shakopee School District entered into a 5-year agreement for the city to sponsor, in partnership with Scott County, the Human Services Academy. This action would agree to sponsor the academy for another 5 years.
The Academies congregate students along the above six areas and provide them an opportunity to connect with other students who have similar interests and with teachers and professionals operating in the areas. “Champions” are sponsors of each Academy and provide professional interaction and real-world experience to motivate and inspire students.
Using the Ford NGL framework, the program mobilizes educators, employers and community leaders to prepare students for their experiences beyond high school – including college or trade school, their career and life in the 21st Century economy. There are three basic tenants of the Academy model:
1. To transform teaching and learning by creating meaningful learning experiences that enable students to learn and apply academic, 21st Century, and technical knowledge and skills to real-world challenges and that equip them for success in college and careers.
2. To transform the secondary school experience by creating and maintaining the career and interest-themed academies and the collaborative culture, structures, and practices necessary to transform teaching and learning and to capitalize on community engagement.
3. To transform business and civic engagement by engaging employers, educators, and community leaders in building and sustaining transformed secondary schools that promote community growth and prosperity by preparing students for future work and citizenship.
By agreeing to sponsor the Academy of Human Services – in conjunction with Scott County – the City of Shakopee would be agreeing once again to split in-kind services totaling $300,000 over five years. There is no requirement for funding in regard to the Human Services Academy.
The Human Services Academy includes career fields related to human development, psychology, education, legal fields, law enforcement and public service. As one of the champions, City staff would be available to:
· Participate in meetings regarding the structure, scope and sequence of the Academy
· Participate in student or staff development programs
· Mentor students
· Provide guest speakers and lectures
· Provide job shadowing opportunities, field trips, or guided tours of City projects or facilities.
· Provide opportunities for externships, internships, capstone projects or other practical and hands-on experiences.