Madison Reporter

Middle school students in the Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) will have the chance to participate in the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Summer Discovery Program. This initiative is available at no cost to rising 6th to 8th graders, offering hands-on learning experiences in various career fields such as business, healthcare, skilled trades, and engineering.

CTE is an essential component of MMSD's strategy to equip students with practical skills for their future. Mitchell Staroscik, MMSD’s director of personalized pathways and CTE, noted that "students engage in these courses for a variety of reasons," whether for fun, exploring potential careers, or gaining an early start on professional aspirations.

The program includes sessions led by licensed CTE educators. Participants will interact with industry partners and undertake hands-on projects across several career pathways. Courses offered this year include Business Entrepreneurship, Coding and Robotics, Culinary Arts, Engineering Design, Health Science, Video Production, and Skilled Trades like Carpentry, Electrical, and Plumbing.

Isaiah B., an 8th grader who joined last year's program remarked on its practical nature: “We built circuits, made charger outlets—it was all hands-on.” Ian P., another past participant said woodworking was his favorite part: “I got to build a bench and take it home.”

MMSD data highlights that 95% of students concentrating in CTE courses graduate on time. Registration opens in April with limited spaces available. MMSD also provides free summer bus passes to ensure accessibility for all students interested in this experiential learning opportunity.