In order to provide a comprehensive education for our students, the J.O. Combs Unified School District works hard to offer a robust balance of academics, college and career readiness, and extracurricular activities. At the heart of this effort lies the district's robust college and career readiness program, which takes root at the elementary level and flourishes throughout a student's educational journey. The district personalizes this educational journey for each student through the use of platforms such as MajorClarity and Paper, allowing students the opportunity for career exploration, development of individual interests and strengths, and 24/7 academic tutoring support.
Beginning in elementary school, Combs students are given an initial introduction into potential careers through career awareness activities through the exploration of 16 career clusters. Not only are students engaged through their area of interest, but they are able to explore other options that align with their strengths and interests. As they move to middle and high school, courses are available to prepare them for their desired career path, as well as resources to help them to develop skills in applying for jobs or post secondary education, obtaining scholarships, building resumes and interviewing. This year’s exciting addition of the “Careers and Your Future” class at Combs Middle School also now allows all seventh grade students the opportunity to explore academic and career plans through a series of robust hands-on experiences.
Throughout this process students also develop personalized learner profiles, outlining their individual interests, strengths, and post high school goals. This profile evolves and grows with them during their journey at Combs, along with their transcript and resume information, providing a valuable resource that is available to them even post graduation.
Students can take Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses in 13 different programs at Combs High School, in addition to other courses in nearly 40 programs through the local Career and Technical Education District, EVIT. These programs ensure that students who complete a two or three year sequence will graduate with an industry approved credential, with some programs even offering college credit. Students also participate in leadership development through Career Technical Student Organizations and gain valuable skill training through work-based learning opportunities. CTE programs also support students in various ways to bridge the professional skills gap that many employers seek in today’s workforce.
With its steadfast commitment to comprehensive education and college and career readiness, the J.O. Combs Unified School District is setting a shining example for schools nationwide, fostering a generation of graduates who are equipped with all of the necessary skills, knowledge and characteristics to thrive in a modern world.
Dr. Gregory A. Wyman is superintendent at the J.O. Combs Unified School District in San Tan Valley.
