Career-Connected Learning in New Mexico (CCLinNM)

CCLinNM supports an innovative model of career-connected learning (CCL) adapted to accommodate students with disabilities. The proposed project will demonstrate the efficacy of a statewide multi-sector partnership network made effective through a unified vision that drives coordinated support services and service delivery models to transition these students to postsecondary programs and CIE. This initiative is funded through the Disability Innovation Fund (DIF) Program to support innovative activities aimed at increasing competitive integrated employment (CIE) for youth and other individuals with disabilities.

New Mexico was awarded this grant in 2023

Project Objectives and Outcomes

  • Relevant CCL Content: Aligning course material with the workforce requirements in New Mexico.
  • Enhanced Access to Career Exploration: Ensuring that students with disabilities have access and tools that facilitate career exploration, aiding their transition from school.​
  • Improved Math Proficiency and Motivation: Enhancing students' mathematical skills and motivation levels to ​ better prepare them for an evolving job market.​
  • Fostering Self-Awareness and Advocacy: Empowering students with disabilities to build self-confidence and advocate for themselves. Effectively express their needs.​
  • Enhancing Teacher and Partner Training: Equipping K-12 teachers and partners with the knowledge and skills to support the career journeys of students with disabilities.​
  • Building a Unified Vision: Demonstrating the power of a shared vision (CCL) to connect educators, businesses, community stakeholders, and state-level agencies to align resources and service delivery models ​ for students with disabilities.​
  • Improving Measurement of CCL in Special Education: Developing systems for collecting data that accurately measure growth in CCL awareness and proficiency.
Here are the detailed anticipated outcomes of the Career-Connected Learning in New Mexico (CCLinNM) initiative, as outlined across the project proposal, innovation summary, and budget narrative:

The innovative approach to supporting student success has bold goals and seeks lofty outcomes. Below are some details on what outcomes we seek to accomplish.

1. Career Exploration & Self-Advocacy
  • 75% of students with disabilities will identify job interests and gain self-confidence to pursue careers.
  • 50% will demonstrate growth in self-confidence through their personalized “My Career Page”.
  • 45% will report increased ability to secure meaningful work and advocate for their needs.
  • 75% of students participating in internships will communicate disability-related needs effectively.

2. Academic Growth

  • 100% of software and curriculum tools will be enhanced with accommodations.
  • 75% of students will show a 20% improvement in math proficiency through differentiated, career-connected instruction.
  • 25% improvements are expected in attendance, reduced disciplinary actions, lower dropout rates, and increased graduation rates.

3. Career Exploration & Self-Advocacy

  • 40% of students will build STEM-aligned math skills connected to job choices.
  • 40% will be prepared for competitive integrated employment (CIE) after graduation.
  • 75% of students in CIE will be able to advocate for their needs in the workplace.

4. Academic Growth

  • 80% of teachers will report improved understanding of CCL and the needs of students with disabilities
  • 80% will feel more effective in supporting these students.

5. Systemic Capacity Building

  • A comprehensive state plan will be developed to align cradle-to-career services for students with disabilities.
  • A statewide data system will be implemented to track student growth, accessibility, and long-term outcomes.

6. Multi-Sector Engagement

  • 50 new business partners and 20 economic development organizations will be engaged
  • 75 business partners will provide virtual or onsite work-based learning opportunities.

7. Innovation & Technology

  • Development of adaptive digital curricula, inclusive career exploration tools, and a personalized “My Career Page” platform.
  • Creation of 100 new career videos in each of the first two years, many featuring individuals with disabilities.

8. Longitudinal Impact

  • Students will be tracked post-graduation to assess transitions into postsecondary education or CIE.
  • Data will be disaggregated by disability type and region to inform evidence-based policy and practice.
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