Quicklinks
© 2024 Massachusetts Innovation Career Pathways. All rights reserved. Web Design by Tomo360
It is possible for an LEA to have a portfolio of multiple types of High Quality College and Career Pathways within a school. An applicant can propose a wall-to-wall Early College or Innovation Career Pathway (one in which all students are enrolled); most applicants submit proposals for one or more sector-based pathway programs that serve a cohort of students.
Yes. In addition to the local MassHire board and an employer partner (one of which is required per chosen industry sector), examples might be different types of employers, designated apprentice programs, workforce career centers, or community based organizations.
No. The designation is not a competitive process. It will be awarded to all applicants who meet the criteria for Final Designation. At this time, we anticipate there will continue to be an annual cycle of applications for designation.
The application must be a joint submission by the district, as lead applicant, a local MassHire Board as primary partner, and an employer partner as a supporting partner, evidenced by a letter/memorandum of agreement to partner with the LEA.
No. However, it is important to resolve any issues related to collective bargaining during the pathway planning process.
Yes, the application provides the opportunity to identify more than one sector. Where appropriate, the applicant will need to provide relevant information for each proposed pathway (e.g., scope and sequence questions, employer partners).
All application materials may be found at the DESE Innovation Career Pathways website. Applications must be submitted electronically by the due dates. The application process has multiple phases:
You may submit questions via the contact form. We welcome all questions and are here to support you throughout the planning, designation, and implementation processes. Also, refer to the events and resources offered to prospective designees via the library of resources.
Many Innovation Career Pathways programs have a number of employer partners whose involvement evolves as the program progresses. The application should clearly state and provide evidence of an MOU with the primary employer partner(s). For other emerging partnerships, such as local businesses who are interested in supporting the pathway, but unable to yet make specific commitments, applicants should briefly describe the leads you have with organizations that will contribute to more personalized and tailored experiences for students.
The school will need to go through the Part A and Part B application process for designation of the new pathways. Please refer to the information posted on the DESE Innovation Career Pathways webpage.
Industry sector selection and alignment is the most common challenge seen with Part A applications. There are five approved industry sectors: business and finance; environmental and life science; healthcare and social assistance; information; and advanced manufacturing. In contrast to Chapter 74 programs, Innovation Career Pathways offer participating students exposure to these broad industries. Proposed programs must not be too narrow or occupationally-focused; pathways-specific coursework and student experiences must be aligned to the chosen sectors and guide students to relevant post-secondary education and training. To assist with this, we encourage applicants to partner with their local MassHire boards early in the program development process.
Another area for attention early in the design process is equity for students in the pathways. Equity must be considered from three dimensions – access (recruitment, outreach, communications), engagement (removal of barriers to full participation, inclusive structures and culture) and retention (support, relationships, and college/career linkages). Equity-focused resources are available within the library of resources.
The LEA is the fiscal agent, and the superintendent/executive director must sign the application form.
The full timeline may be found at the DESE Innovation Career Pathways website. Applications must be completed and submitted electronically by the due dates.
The lead applicant for Innovation Career Pathway program designation must be a Local Education Agency (LEA), specifically a Massachusetts school district or charter school.
Districts that receive a Final Designation for a pathway will be eligible to apply for implementation funds. Note – there is a separate application process for this grant funding. Please refer to the information posted on the DESE Innovation Career Pathways webpage and the the DESE Grant Funding Opportunities webpage. The maximum award for newly designated programs in FY24 was $75,000.
© 2024 Massachusetts Innovation Career Pathways. All rights reserved. Web Design by Tomo360