A Changing Workforce Demands Change in Education

Loeffelman discusses the Cherry Creek School District which embarked on a community engagement process intended to elevate environments and opportunities for its learners. The capstone of the initiative was a career and technical education facility that focuses on innovation and career and college readiness. The DLR Group was selected to lead the planning and programming process of the new Cherry Creek Innovation Campus. The campus provides a hands-on experience and offers a curriculum rooted in real-world skills and trade certifications. It is designed to accommodate three types of learners: students who plan to attend college take dual enrollment courses to earn credit toward their college degree; students who prefer to enter the workforce or military immediately learn skills or trades necessary for future success; and students who have yet to decide on a profession can further explore interests and build skill sets that will give them a competitive advantage.