Students and Parents Explore Career Opportunities in Syracuse City School District
The Syracuse City School District (SCSD) organized an event on Monday evening, Nov. 4, giving eighth graders from Syracuse and neighboring school districts a glimpse into their future career paths. Hosted at the Everson Museum of Art, the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Pathways Expo welcomed students and their parents to explore a variety of educational programs. With over 30 career and technical programs presented, the event aimed to guide students toward academic and professional success early on.
Erin Noto, Syracuse City School District SCSD’s executive director of career and technical education, expressed excitement about the array of programs available, including the district’s upcoming Regional STEAM High School. “They’re so interested because we have such a wide array of programs to offer to all the new kids,” Noto said, adding that the STEAM high school is set to open next year. The school’s focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) will provide students with a modern, career-oriented curriculum to help them thrive in their future pursuits.
Hands-On Learning with Industry Connections
The programs at SCSD aim to provide students with more than just academic knowledge. Through CTE and STEAM-focused curricula, students engage in hands-on learning, receiving mentorship and specialized training directly relevant to their desired careers. Noto emphasized the value of these partnerships, saying that students “get to engage in programs with their business or industry partners or post-secondary partners,” enabling them to transition smoothly from school to the workforce, higher education, or other professional paths. By fostering connections with local industries and institutions, SCSD provides students with a head start on achieving their long-term goals, whether in technical fields, skilled trades, or advanced studies.
For many students, the expo was a moment of inspiration. Eighth-grader Dawson McCann, from Bishop Ludden Junior-Senior High School, shared his interest in pursuing animation, expressing excitement for the STEAM High School’s technology and math programs. The hands-on experiences offered through these programs will allow students like Dawson to gain practical skills aligned with their aspirations, further supported by the district’s strong network of industry mentors and educational partners.
Family Support and Educational Benefits
Parents attending the expo were enthusiastic about the opportunities their children could gain from the SCSD programs. Kelly McCann, Dawson’s mother, and educator, highlighted the positive impact these programs can have on students’ engagement and commitment to the school. “Students are invested in the programs, they’re going to school because they want to be at school,” Kelly remarked, noting how these specialized programs foster strong connections between students and their instructors, reinforcing a sense of purpose and academic focus.
With applications for the new STEAM High School opening in December, interested students will soon have the chance to apply. SCSD’s CTE programs are expected to become available in 2025, promising to equip students with the skills needed in a rapidly changing job market. The event highlighted the district’s commitment to offering practical, future-focused educational options that engage students, involve families, and establish meaningful partnerships with the local community.
