Rochester initiative is helping to ensure that students are prepared for the future

By Jessica Ihrke, November guest blogger

Last month I had the privilege of stepping back into the 7th grade classroom to implement a module from the LearnDoEarn program. Although this was a very positive experience, I was quickly reminded of what a challenging and demanding position our teachers have every day. They are truly amazing!!  The Rochester Area Chamber and the business community took the lead in advancing the LearnDoEarn initiative in our middle and high schools. It is a strategic and systematic way to build academic momentum, increase student participation In rigorous STEM courses, impress the value and importance of strong work ethic, and develop computer proficiency and financial literacy. In short, it ensures that all students in the Rochester Area graduate successfully and prepared for post-secondary education, work and life.

Through the implementation of a LearnDoEarn module entitled “Be Great by Eight,” 7th grade students received crucial information they needed to know to improve their educational, career and life options. For example, did you know that adults who did no homework in school usually earn 35% less than adults who did 15 hours of homework per week in school? That’s right! Homework really matters and what students are learning now, and doing now in school every day, enables them to earn more later in life! We also got into some great conversation on low skills jobs and how the workforce is changing due to many factors such as the rapid advancements in technology. One student realized why he may not be able to flip burgers like his uncle in 10+years. It was not because he or the job was not good enough, it was the simple fact that his friend across the aisle shared: “Robots will flipping our burgers.” And this student was absolutely right on track!

We need to continue to share with our students, teachers and parents that we are truly preparing our children for their world. To be prepared for the jobs that have yet to be invented. And to let them know that we need every last student! We cannot get enough innovators, scientists, mathematicians, programmers, designers and problem solvers. We invite you to visit www.rochestermnchamber.com to learn more about Workforce 2020 and related efforts such as the LearnDoEarn initiative.

Please share your innovative education/workforce strategies with us and how your community is positively taking action to prepare your workforce!