Preparing Students for the Future: Tarrance Jones on College and Career Readiness
As a proud product of the Grand Prairie Public Schools and a retired professional with 22 years of experience in the Department of Justice, I have always been passionate about providing our students with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed in the ever-changing world we live in. Now, as a candidate for the Grand Prairie ISD School Board Place 2, my commitment to preparing students for the future is stronger than ever.
Today's students face a rapidly evolving job market, with new industries and technologies emerging every day. To thrive in this environment, our students must be equipped with not only a strong academic foundation but also the skills and competencies necessary for success in the 21st century. As a school board member, I will work tirelessly to ensure that our district's policies and programs reflect this commitment to college and career readiness.
One of the key components of my vision for college and career readiness is a robust career and technical education (CTE) program. CTE programs provide students with hands-on, real-world learning experiences that align with the needs of our local and regional industries. By expanding our CTE offerings and strengthening partnerships with local businesses, we can create a pipeline of skilled workers ready to contribute to our community's economic growth.
In addition to CTE, I believe that our district must prioritize the development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills across all grade levels and subject areas. These "soft skills" are essential for success in today's workforce and can be cultivated through project-based learning, interdisciplinary coursework, and extracurricular programs.
Furthermore, we must ensure that our students have access to the resources and support they need to make informed decisions about their post-secondary options. This includes comprehensive college and career counseling services, as well as opportunities to explore various pathways through internships, job shadowing, and dual enrollment programs.
As a candidate for the Grand Prairie ISD School Board Place 2, I am committed to preparing our students for the future by fostering a culture of college and career readiness throughout our district. With your support, we can work together to ensure that all students in Grand Prairie have the skills, knowledge, and opportunities they need to succeed in the world beyond our classroom walls.