Advancing Career-Based Learning in Collaboration with Education Leaders Across the Nation
The 2025 Career-Connected Learning Gathering, held at Da Vinci Schools from March 12-14, was an outstanding event, bringing together more than 75 educators, leaders, and industry partners from 40+ schools, districts, and nonprofit organizations. Attendees came from across the South Bay’s high school districts, as well as from as far away as New York, Wisconsin, and Texas, to share insights and learn from one another’s efforts in preparing students for successful careers.
Da Vinci intentionally frames this event as “a gathering, not a conference,” highlighting its focus on creating a space for educators to share ideas, successes, and challenges, rather than promoting a one-size-fits-all approach to career education. This philosophy recognizes the diverse contexts in which our schools operate. A standout feature of the gathering is the collaboration between charter schools and district schools, which typically work in separate silos. Additionally, the event is offered at no cost to participants, reinforcing its commitment to inclusivity and collaboration.
This year’s event kicked off with a keynote address by Aubrey Nelson from Charter School Growth Fund and Abigail Smith from Bain & Company sharing the results of this year’s Alumni Early Career Outcomes Survey, which underscored the critical importance of giving students exposure and opportunities to develop career-relevant skills during high school.
Breakout sessions on the second day included workshops on:
- The state & national legislative landscape on career education
- Integrating Industry Certifications & Credentials into CTE Courses & Real World Learning Programs
- Dual Enrollment & Early College programs
- Starting a Sustainable Post-12th Grade Career Launch Program
- Assessing the impact of AI on the future job market
- Supporting the career readiness journey of undocumented students, students with disabilities, and other historically marginalized groups
On the third day of the event, school and organizational leaders were joined by career technical education (CTE) teachers from across the South Bay. A key highlight of the day was an Industry Panel, where industry partners shared employers’ perspectives on how students can succeed in the workplace. Employers emphasized the importance of acquiring skills such as communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and dependability. All panelists agreed that it’s essential for individuals—whether prospective new hires or current employees—to be able to clearly articulate their personal contributions to team efforts.
The event also provided opportunities for CTE teachers to network with colleagues and professionals, sharing project ideas and resources for helping prepare students for careers in the various CTE pathways.
Da Vinci Schools is grateful for the generous and abiding support of Charter School Growth Fund for their support of this event!
