Youth Solutions Empowers Battle Creek Educators to Connect Classroom Learning with Career Readiness

On March 21, more than 60 educators in Battle Creek came together to participate in Youth Solutions’ Connecting Careers to the Core (CCC) professional development training at Lakeview High School. Through interactive workshops and resources, educators learned how to create engaging environments that prepare students for the evolving workforce.

Launched by Youth Solutions in 2024, CCC is designed to help educators embed transferable skills and skill-centric teaching into their classrooms.

“Connecting Careers to the Core isn't just about teaching skills—it’s about changing the way educators think about student engagement,” said Alex Packer, Learning and Resource Development Manager for Youth Solutions. “When students see how their learning connects to their future, their motivation and success soar.”

“This was the most applicable professional development I’ve ever attended,” said Keelin Markou, a teacher at Lakeview High School. “It was awesome seeing a lesson demonstrated for us that we got to participate in, and I feel like I can really apply this to my science classroom.” 

Cody Japinga, Principal of Lakeview High School, reinforced the importance of this approach, sharing that students have a growing desire for more relevant coursework that connects to their futures.

“We want students to be able to articulate a post secondary plan, and leave here with the knowledge and the skills to achieve that particular plan,” he said. “We know that the skills that we teach in English, Math, Science, Social Studies, Physical Education–those things will bubble up for kids in terms of career possibilities as well, which made this PD a perfect fit for us”. 

School districts who are interested in bringing the CCC professional development to their school can contact Youth Solutions through their website at www.ouryouthsolutions.org.