As we wrap up February and CTE Month, we are excited to share updates and opportunities that continue to support student success in career and technical education. This edition highlights key initiatives in work-based learning, college and career readiness, and career development, ensuring students are equipped with the skills and experiences needed for their futures.

We are also proud to spotlight the Saginaw County Youth Ambassadors Program, which provides leadership and advocacy opportunities for students, along with updates on CTE and Early Middle College (EMC) programs that are creating pathways to industry-recognized credentials and postsecondary success.

Stay tuned for upcoming events, success stories, and ways to engage with these transformative programs!

Gabby Wirth - Heritage High School Senior

Employer - Saginaw YMCA

"In my work-based learning (WBL) experience, I learned about human services. Being a lifeguard means knowing how to help people quickly and efficiently. It allows me to work with other people in intense situations. I intend to go into marine life when older, so being in the water as much as possible is extremely important to me. This career opportunity is important to me in many ways, from getting to know the sweetest members to saving their lives if it comes down to it. My Psychology class will support me in my WBL experience because it will provide me with more insight into why we do what we do as people. It will give me a better understanding as to why people may be having a certain reaction to a workout or the chlorine in the pool. Psychology may also help me keep a clearer headspace in an extreme situation.

I learned a lot of different things about the way our brain allows our bodies to function. This is helpful when it comes to lifeguarding because it allows me to have a better idea of what may be going on with someone who suffers from a chronic illness, or a mental illness, etc."

Her employer, Sandra Cline, Aquatics Director, Saginaw YMCA, says, "I'm so excited that Gabby has the opportunity to use her lifeguarding job as a work-based learning experience. It gives me an opportunity to pay forward being a mentor to a high school student just as some one did for me.   I would love to have other students with swimming skills consider becoming lifeguards and take advantage of this amazing opportunity."

Emerge VR is revolutionizing career exploration for middle school students by bringing immersive virtual reality (VR) experiences directly into classrooms. Their half-day to full-day visits provide 7th and 8th graders with hands-on opportunities to step into the roles of professionals across a variety of industries.

Each visit is interactive, engaging, and customized to meet a school’s unique needs. Emerge VR provides all necessary equipment—requiring only Wi-Fi access and an open space such as a classroom, common area, or gymnasium. A single session can accommodate up to 15 VR headsets simultaneously, ensuring an efficient and dynamic experience for students.

VR sessions are structured based on class size and period length. For example, in a 60-minute class with 30 students, each student typically spends 20 minutes in the headset, exploring 3-4 career pathways. These simulations expose students to a wide range of industries, helping them discover career options they may not have previously considered.

Before each visit, Emerge VR collaborates with administrators and teachers to coordinate logistics and ensure a smooth, impactful experience. Their team is highly adaptable, making it easy to bring VR career exploration to any school setting.

For a limited time, Emerge VR visits are completely free and available on a first-come, first-served basis. This is an exciting opportunity for schools to introduce students to career pathways through cutting-edge technology at no cost.

To bring Emerge VR to your school, contact Dennis Barlow, SISD Career Navigator, at dbarlow@sisd.cc. Let’s inspire the next generation through the power of virtual reality!

The Career Readiness PD series is designed to equip career readiness professionals with tools, resources, and strategies to better support students in preparing for their future careers.  Sessions include topics such as integrating career exploration into the school day, building connections with local businesses, guiding students to postsecondary options, and more.  The registration information for the upcoming sessions is included below.  Register now to secure your spot.  For more information, contact Amanda Koch at AKoch@sisd.cc. Together, let’s empower students to achieve their career aspirations!

Kacie May and Mallory Flory of Carrollton HS and St. Charles, respectively, were awarded the "Good Citizens Award", through the Daughters of the American Revolution Organization.  #SagiNOW

The 33rd Annual Professional Chefs' Hot Food Competition & Tasting was held on Monday, February 10, 2025, at the Bavarian Inn Lodge in Frankenmuth, Michigan. The event was hosted by the American Culinary Federation. Saginaw Career Complex Chef/Instructor, Mrs. Julie Ivan, posing with her former students, Shay Love (Left) and Te'Arika Miree (Right) who took home a fan favorite award for their first time competing since graduating from high school. Both ladies are working in the culinary field while attending Delta College.