Dear Parents and Guardians,

We would like to take this opportunity to update you on the progress we have made in our Academic and Career Planning (ACP) process. The 16-17 school year was a pilot year and this school year is our first year of implementation. Our mission in Waukesha is to develop in our students the capacity to be college, career, and community ready. We feel Academic and Career Planning supports this belief.  

Academic and Career Planning is an ongoing process for students in grades 6-12. At each grade level, students will receive learning experiences focused on academic and career planning geared for their level with guidance from teacher mentors, counselors, peers, families and the community.

Each year students will set, reflect, and revise their goals within their personal Academic & Career Plan. This is a gradual process that builds from one year to the next and supports the unique development of each student. Student goals and plans are expected to change annually based on their personal experiences. The primary goal of Academic and Career Planning is to produce responsible graduates who will begin their adult life with the knowledge, skills, motivation and a self-directed plan for career and lifelong success.

A web-based program called Career Cruising is what all students will use to build their personal online portfolio. We believe all students should be able to investigate and explore various pathways they may take as part of their post-high school plan.  This portfolio can also be used for college and job applications, when applying for scholarships, and for membership in organizations such as National Honor Society. Additionally, it can be utilized as a helpful guide during our district college and career fair.

We encourage families to review your student’s portfolios and artifacts together.  

Reviewing your student’s portfolios and artifacts together can be a great way to start a conversation around their goals as they relate to academic, career, and personal goals. As exploration is a key focus of Academic and Career Planning process, you may not see a clearly identified career focus, the reflection and conversation that occurs as a result may be essential in the shaping of your student’s future goals.

Your student will be able to share his/her portfolio with you once the school year begins, and more information on sharing will be available at the School District of Waukesha’s College and Career Fair hosted at Waukesha South on October 23 from 4:30-7:30 PM.  The school district website will contain other information and resources related to Academic and Career Planning. If you have any questions regarding Academic Career Planning, please contact your school counselor.

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