With the football season drawing near, we find ourselves immersed in the anticipation and spectacle that comes with it. Yet, beyond the thrill of the game lies a truly inspiring aspect – the triumphs of the players and the extraordinary performances of the band, cheer, and drill teams. Observing these moments fills us with admiration as our children match their passions with their abilities, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime. It is a big reminder of how special it is for them to represent our schools and the camaraderie they discover as valued team members.
Last month, the Wylie East Raider Solar Car Team enthusiastically geared up for the annual Solar Car Challenge. Their mission was to drive the East Beast Xtreme, covering approximately 925 miles to California, and compete against teams nationwide. Regrettably, unforeseen circumstances beyond the team’s control forced an abrupt end to the entire competition. After only a few days, all teams had to return home. Despite the disappointment, the team found solace in their unity. With “Wylie East” proudly displayed on their shirts, this group of talented drivers, welders, and engineers may not experience the spotlight of Friday night. However, their sense of accomplishment and pride rival any student representing their school colors. Their achievements deserve recognition, and we couldn’t be prouder of them.
One of our seniors, Santiago Luca Castillo-Lara, had the opportunity to be part of a different kind of team. This summer, he secured an internship with the Human Resources department at the City of Wylie. Working with various staff members on different projects, including an I-9 audit and participating in the entire hiring process, Santiago discovered a passion for HR.
He attributes much of his success to the Career & Technical Education (CTE) program at Wylie ISD. He says, “Some people underestimate the CTE classes because they aren’t core classes, and ‘they don’t really matter’ although, I have found the CTE classes to be the most beneficial to me and have helped me find success in pursuing my passion of Human Resources. I believe the skills you learn in CTE classes are sure to stick with you for the rest of your life.”
In Wylie ISD, education means more than just academic subjects like math, reading, science, or social studies. Last month, you may have received a brochure in the mail highlighting our CTE programs. We believe learning and growing in our schools means nurturing hope, well-being, and student engagement. Wylie ISD has a PLAN to EMBOLDEN our graduates with job skills and college preparation, and that plan begins the moment they start school in our district. We strive to help the students follow their passions, utilize their strengths, and chart their future with a world-class education—the Wylie Way! And we want our families and community to know it!
Our Wylie Way Map Your Future curriculum guides students from kindergarten to graduation, empowering them with job skills and college preparation. The journey begins with career awareness in the early grades, where students are exposed to various career options through Map Your Future Monday career videos, featuring former students, family members, and local business owners. This exposure ignites excitement and allows students to visualize their future possibilities.
If you would like to participate in an upcoming career video season, please fill out this link: https://forms.gle/w93LUY1xWmqJfxGL6.
To take a look at our career video playlist, click here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLi4dN_SJE2y6Q1o0i3O5o8dZ7SztlJm5D
As students progress to junior high, they build “college knowledge” and explore their interests to choose a career experience in high school, known as #ihaveaplanwisd. During Endorsement Preview Day, eighth graders explore different program booths, ask questions, and witness live demonstrations of what they could learn in the future. High schools also host #ihaveaplanwisd nights for incoming freshmen and their families to meet administrators, counselors, and teachers involved in the programs of study, helping them make informed choices for their freshman year. It’s a great opportunity to experience what high school will be like!
You may be wondering if our career videos continue into junior high – they do! For Map Your Future Mondays at our junior highs, students in seventh and eighth grade are shown videos of our programs of study offered at our high schools told from the perspective of kids in their career experiences. We want them to be able to see the career and technical classes they are able to enroll in starting their freshman year.
If you would like to see these programs, please check out this video playlist. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLi4dN_SJE2y6SFOVJ4gBi_nEf04iZqQWz
Our focus on college and career readiness offers a diverse range of advanced programs of study, catering to individual needs and aspirations. From architecture and HVAC to digital communications and business management, our curriculum covers various fields, such as accounting, culinary arts, engineering science, health science, law enforcement, robotics, sports marketing, welding, and more. Our approach, “college with a small c,” acknowledges that not all students need a traditional four-year university experience. Our goal is to equip them with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in their chosen paths, whether it’s higher education or alternative career routes.
In line with Wylie Way core ethical value of responsibility, we have set a board goal to ensure that our teachers are equipped to guide our students toward success. We understand the crucial role teachers play in preparing our students for the future. To support their development, we have compiled a comprehensive guide called “Your Bold Story,” focusing on personal and professional growth strategies.
We firmly believe that college and career readiness and preparation are vital for our students’ futures. It’s not just about academic achievements; it’s about empowering them to become confident, well-rounded individuals capable of succeeding in any chosen path. As we welcome the start of school and all that fall brings–band, cross country, football, volleyball and so much more–we cheer our kids on and BOLDLY prepare them for a prosperous life beyond high school—the Wylie Way!
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