Kalamazoo County middle and high school students and their families are invited to discover the many free educational opportunities available to them at the Kalamazoo RESA (KRESA) Career Connect Open House on Tuesday, Dec. 3, 5 to 7:30 p.m. at the Air Zoo, 6151 Portage Rd.
Traditionally, the Open House was held in February; however, it will be held at an earlier date in December this year to better align with local school districts’ enrollment timelines.
Students can explore more than 50 classes and other programs to identify which would best prepare them for their unique futures. Staff, teachers and current and former students will be on hand to answer questions and discuss their experiences. Business and industry partners will also be in attendance to highlight their collaboration in various work-based learning and internship opportunities available within these programs. The KRESA Career Connect Discovery Lab will also be on-site for attendees to explore.
The following KRESA Career Connect programs will be represented:
Career & Technical Education (CTE) | Hands-on career preparation courses to develop skills and earn credentials
Education for the Arts (EFA) | Arts-intensive courses in theater, dance, visual arts and more
Early/Middle College (EMC) | Dual-enrollment with KVCC to earn a certificate or an associate degree during high school
MyCITY | Paid internships and career pathway planning for youth and young adults ages 14-24
2Gen | Paid career exploration and pathway planning for Kalamazoo families
CareerNOW | Paid career preparation program in healthcare and skilled trades with connection to short-term training, apprenticeships, and employment opportunities
Attendees are also invited to check out the Discovery Lab, a mobile learning lab featuring hands-on technology in supply chain, welding and design.
“There truly is something for everyone in our Career Connect continuum of programs,” said Eric Stewart, KRESA Career Connect assistant superintendent for career and talent development. “Whether it be high school CTE and arts courses, work-based learning opportunities, internships, personalized career coaching, or our Early/Middle College program, our services are tailored to help young people unlock the door to possibility and opportunity.”
The community will also have a chance to tour KRESA’s brand-new CTE center, currently under construction and opening to students in fall of 2025, at the Career Connect Campus Grand Opening Celebration on May 22, 2025, from 4 to 7 p.m., located at 3500 Vanrick Drive.
For more information, visit kresa.org/careerconnect To apply online, visit kresa.org/apply
*In case of weather cancellations, the event will be rescheduled for Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2024, at the Air Zoo.