Programs of Study in Illinois
Programs of Study (POS) are sequences of courses that incorporate a non-duplicative progression of secondary and postsecondary elements which include both academic and CTE content. Effective Programs of Study should start no later than the ninth grade and continue through at least two years of postsecondary education. Programs of Study include opportunities to earn college credit (dual credit) in high school, an industry-recognized credential or certificate at the secondary/postsecondary level, and an associate or baccalaureate degree.
A CTE Program of Study is a sequence of instruction, based on recommended standards, and knowledge and skills consisting of secondary and postsecondary coursework, co-curricular activities, work-site learning, service learning and other learning experiences offered in an aligned and coordinated manner that prepares students for a specific career. This is a flexible resource for students and is designed to change in concert with the interests and needs of the learner.
Programs of Study Goals:
Equip students with the skills and credentials required for success in high-growth, high-demand, and/or high-wage career fields
Close the achievement gap
Increase curricular alignment
Decrease the need for remediation
Create meaningful education options for ALL students
Increase enrollment and persistence
Increase attainment of degrees and certificates
Ensure that ALL students attain education and skills needed for success
Increase academic and skill achievement
Increase entry into employment or further education
Develop model mechanisms of collaboration
Enhance collaboration between secondary and post-secondary educators and institutions
Enhance collaboration between core academic and career/technical instructors
Enhance collaboration between business/industry partnerships and educators
Focus on the development of lessons that integrate career content within lesson frameworks for core academic subjects
Align classroom content and advising with National Career Development Standards