LA-24:Expanding Access to Technology

Pathways Improvement Scope

Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) acknowledges a technology disparity impacting its diverse student body and strives to enrich access within its Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways. Recognizing over 40% of school-age children in the district not attending PUSD public schools, the initiative aims to narrow the technology divide compared to local private schools. The project focuses on mitigating lower completion rates for specific student groups while aligning CTE pathways with regional industry demands. Key objectives include enhancing access to industry-standard equipment, integrating technology into curriculum, fostering internships, obtaining industry-recognized certifications, and aligning courses with post-secondary institutions. Moreover, the initiative targets the removal of barriers for students with exceptional needs, leveraging technology for accommodations and flexible learning. PUSD aspires to establish an inclusive and comprehensive approach to technology integration, ensuring all students are well-equipped for success in rapidly evolving industries.

Goals & Priorities

Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) strives to bridge the technology gap in its Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways through focused objectives. Objectives include enhancing access to cutting-edge technology, integrating technology into curriculum through project-based learning, expanding student internships and teacher externships, increasing access to industry-recognized certification software, fostering student participation in dual enrollment courses, and aligning courses with Pasadena City College in emerging technology-specific sectors. The outcomes aim to equip CTE programs with industry-aligned technology, enhance completion rates, increase internship opportunities, and prepare students for high-demand industries. Partnering with Pasadena City College and various organizations, the initiative seeks to serve over a thousand students across diverse CTE pathways, offering a comprehensive and equitable approach to technology integration. The project’s success will be annually evaluated using data and feedback to assess its impact on enrollment, demographics, faculty development, curriculum, and student achievement.