IHBH - Middle School Pathway Exploration Policy

DUDLEY-CHARLTON REGIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

POLICY - IHBH

Middle School Pathway Exploration Policy

Purpose and Overview

In accordance with Massachusetts regulations 603 CMR 4.00, the Dudley-Charlton Regional School District (DCRSD) shall maintain a Middle School Pathway Exploration Policy that ensures middle school students are made aware of and gain exposure to career technical education (CTE) schools and programs available to them in the district, regional, agricultural, and other public high schools.

Goals

The goals of the Middle School Pathway Exploration Policy are to:

• Ensure equitable access for all middle school students to information about CTE and secondary school pathways. E.g., Southern Worcester County Regional Vocational High School (Bay Path)
• Provide structured opportunities for students to learn about career pathways in alignment with their future academic and career goals.
• Establish clear partnerships between the district and the Southern Worcester County Regional Vocational High School (Bay Path) offering CTE.
• Support student readiness for secondary and postsecondary planning.

High School Pathway Options

Students enrolled in DCRSD middle schools have access to a variety of secondary school options including:

• Shepherd Hill Regional High School programs
• Southern Worcester County Regional Vocational Technical School (Bay Path RVTHS)
• Other agricultural high schools available to students by application

These pathways provide academic, technical, and career-related experiences that support both college and career readiness.

Middle School Career Exploration

The district shall provide middle school students with information about CTE programs and related careers through multiple methods including:

• Presentations delivered at middle schools by representatives from CTE schools and programs
• Written materials available in the school and distributed by mail or email
• Information posted on the district website by October 15 of each school year

Middle School CTE Tour Opportunities

The district will ensure that all middle school students have the opportunity to participate in tours of CTE schools and programs during regular school hours. Transportation costs for these tours shall be assumed by the school hosting the tours.

Students who participate in approved tours shall not receive an unexcused absence, provided that the CTE school or program confirms attendance.

Collaboration with CTE Schools and Programs

The district will collaborate with CTE schools and programs to inform students about opportunities, admission timelines, and expectations.

Records and Admissions Support

The district will provide information to CTE schools and programs in support of the admission process, consistent with state and federal laws.

The district shall also maintain documentation of student participation in tours and other activities related to this policy.

Review and Updates

This policy will be reviewed and updated as required by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

REF: 603 CMR 4.03(6)(i)-(f)(j)