Within the coronary heart of rural Illinois, a transformative academic initiative is making waves. Leaders Innovating for Tomorrow (LIFT) is reshaping the long run for college kids within the Mattoon Group Unit College District #2 and past. By harnessing the ability of Cisco know-how, LIFT is providing college students hands-on studying experiences that put together them for thrilling, non-traditional profession paths.
A New Mannequin for Profession and Technical Training
LIFT affords a wide range of profession and technical training (CTE) packages – from IT to HVAC to culinary arts. The choices are as numerous as the scholars’ pursuits. With 101 completely different programs throughout seven pathways, every centered on a selected profession subject, LIFT caters to highschool juniors and seniors in as much as 28 districts.
Positioned in a purpose-built facility, LIFT equips college students with high-demand abilities that put together them for the long run. This system boasts a exceptional statistic: 94% of its highschool graduates enroll in postsecondary training, superior coaching, army service, or employment throughout the yr following commencement.
Overcoming Challenges with Revolutionary Options
Confronted with the problem of standardizing IT infrastructure and supporting an progressive curriculum, the LIFT group turned to Cisco applied sciences. Implementing options reminiscent of Catalyst Switches, Webex, Meraki Good Cameras, and Safe Firewall, they created a seamless and safe studying atmosphere. This complete setup facilitates collaboration and connectivity, making certain that each college students and school can give attention to what issues most – training.
Along with know-how, LIFT college students are making a tangible impression in their communities. In simply the final yr, 254 service initiatives had been accomplished, and college students participated in 201 lively management alternatives, demonstrating their dedication to bettering the college and the area.
Remodeling the Academic Panorama
“We don’t have a standard classroom atmosphere,” explains Aaron Ramsey, IT Program Facilitator. “It’s extra like a workshop mannequin, with pockets of scholars engaged on various things.” This shift from typical strategies to a self-directed, hands-on studying mannequin permits college students to focus on sensible abilities, getting ready them for each larger training and the workforce.
By way of this progressive strategy, college students earned 452 certifications, credentials, and twin credit final yr, positioning them forward of the curve in right this moment’s aggressive job market.
Instructing IT By way of a Abilities-to-Jobs Program
Ramsey has reimagined IT instruction by emphasizing real-world functions over conventional homework and checks. By organising a state-of-the-art server lab with Cisco {hardware}, college students achieve beneficial expertise and business certifications via Cisco Networking Academy programs.
Of the scholars who’ve taken a Cisco Networking Academy course at LIFT previously three years, three have earned CCNA certifications, seven have earned JavaScript certifications via Networking Academy’s companion programs, and 4 have accomplished the IT Necessities course, incomes its credential. One pupil additionally efficiently handed the Safety+ examination, changing into the primary in this system to take and obtain the certification.
Ramsey proudly notes, “100% of our college students even have clear plans for his or her subsequent steps after highschool.”
Bridging the Hole: Connecting College students Inside and Exterior Lecture rooms
Webex know-how has grow to be a cornerstone of LIFT’s collaborative atmosphere, enabling college students to attach with potential employers, attend digital conferences, and execute neighborhood initiatives. Ramsey recollects a pupil initiative to offer rural communities with free Wi-Fi, noting that “it was a ardour undertaking, and Webex gear allowed her to get on convention calls and facilitate the method.”
LIFT additionally takes an annual journey to Cisco’s Chicago workplaces, the place college students spend a complete day partaking with Cisco staff. From profession panels to interactive actions and open boards, this expertise gives a beneficial glimpse into city skilled environments and conjures up college students to broaden their horizons.
Charting a Pathway to a Brighter Future
By way of progressive use of Cisco know-how, LIFT is remodeling training for rural college students, offering them with the talents and experiences essential to thrive in right this moment’s digital workforce. As Ramsey places it, “Combining Cisco Community Academy coaching with the very best Cisco gear helps our college students keep on prime of present tendencies and applied sciences.”
In rural Illinois, LIFT is not only a program – it’s a pathway to a brighter future.