Exploring Pre-Vocational Skills

CECAP opened its doors for young students from across Santa Cruz and its neighboring communities through its Pre-Vocational Program. Designed to create a space for exploration and discovery, the courses are helping middle school students to make informed career decisions and build confidence.

This year, over 100 9th grade students are exploring real-world skills in business, carpentry, and culinary arts. The program will culminate in a community fair where they will showcase their projects, including meals, furniture and business ideas. By expanding their horizons, the program introduces students to career paths beyond the academic track, helping them imagine futures that align with their interests and local opportunities.

Students Reflect and Dream Together

This month, middle school students from four local public schools came together for three powerful conferences designed to help them take meaningful steps toward their futures. The conferences included:

1) Discovering Who I Am focused on self-awareness, encouraging students to reflect on their strengths, values and emotions. Through guided activities and group discussions they began to build a strong foundation for personal decision-making.

2) Exploring My Future allowed students to learn about career opportunities, hearing from role models and discovering paths that align with their interests and abilities.

3) Building My Path guided students to create a personal life plan with clear, actionable goals.

With each conference, students gained both clarity and confidence. They are now moving forward with purpose, equipped to turn their reflections into real steps toward the future they envision.

Empowered to Choose Their Own Path

More than 100 middle school students are participating in workshops designed to help them navigate life with confidence and intention. Throughout the school year, they explore topics such as emotional intelligence, healthy relationships, consent, digital safety, stress management and career exploration.

As the workshops progress, students reflect on what they have learned and begin shaping their own life projects: personal plans rooted in who they are and what they want for their future. Many are now preparing to apply for high school scholarships, equipped with a stronger sense of purpose, confidence and motivation.

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