The official start of summer is graduation. And, a huge congratulations to the graduates throughout Colorado for making it across that finish line (whether in high school or college).
We often think of graduation as the end of a trail, but the truth is this milestone is really just the beginning.
And, it’s more important than ever that our kids are prepared for what they are about to begin. Here’s the sad fact: 37 percent of Colorado’s high school grads are not as prepared as we made them believe, and they will have to spend time and money on at least one remedial course in college. When you consider that in the next five years, 74 percent of jobs in Colorado will require some post-secondary education (everything from a certificate or apprenticeship to an associate’s or bachelor’s degree), our kids shouldn’t be spending this valuable time and even more resources playing catch up. That’s why we fought so hard this last legislative session to keep high standards and strong statewide assessments in place in Colorado while reducing time kids spend taking assessments with House Bill 1323.
We also supported a number of workforce bills that made it out of the legislature, but a couple in particular will help our kids find their place in the workforce. Now we’ll have more industry-driven career pathways in growing industries; allow educators to provide coursework and credits for apprenticeships and internships; no longer penalize schools whose students enroll in a career and technical education program instead of a four-year institution; and bring mobile learning labs to students, providing on-site training.
You all know that EQ (soft skills) matters as much as IQ (hard skills) in the work world, and the Denver Metro Chamber Leadership Foundation provides the opportunity to enhance those critical skills of collaboration, communication, conflict-resolution and team work in every program. And, they give you the skills to not only be a rock star at work but make a broader impact. You can develop your skills as a leader through Leadership Denver. Over 11 months you’ll get immersed in the issues facing the region and strengthen your leadership skills. Interested? Don’t wait. Applications are due June 1.
Having the smartest workforce on the planet doesn’t just happen—it takes strategy and hard work. And, it starts when we decide that’s what we want.
Kelly Brough is the president and CEO of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce.
[Photo by Jessie Jacobson]