Exploring Postsecondary Education & Training Options
So, what’s the plan after graduation?
This question can feel pretty big, and it’s easy for high school students to feel overwhelmed with all of the choices. This lesson on postsecondary education and training breaks it down, helping students feel ready for their next steps. With a focus on career preparation, this resource explores pathways to help students make confident, informed choices.
What’s Included in the Lesson?
⭐ Interactive Google Slides Presentation
A clear, easy-to-follow guide with speaker notes and additional resources to help students explore options.
⭐ Pathways for Every Student
From college and vocational schools to military options, and alternative routes, each section offers reflection questions for students to explore independently or with their peers. Links to videos and resources help students think about options they might not have considered.
College & University: The ins and outs of degrees, majors, public vs. private colleges, and certificate programs.
Trade Schools: A look at vocational programs and how they compare to college pathways.
Apprenticeships: Real-world training, like electrician apprenticeships, with the benefit of earning while you learn.
Internships: How internships fit into career prep and how they differ from other training options.
Military Education Programs: An overview of the branches and educational opportunities available through military service.
Alternative Routes: From working and taking a gap year to traveling, volunteering, or starting a business.
⭐ Applied Activities
Students dive in to explore postsecondary options, think through future decisions, and get a feel for the (literal) costs of these choices.
Reflection Activity: Students compare six postsecondary options, identify career goals, and set action steps.
Invest in Your Future: Students calculate the potential return on investment (ROI) for different education and training paths.
Fun Word Games: Engaging crossword puzzles and word searches to reinforce key terms.
Why You’ll Love This Lesson!
❤️ Time-Saving
Ready-to-use materials that allow you to focus on connecting with students.
❤️ Student Engagement
Prompts meaningful conversations and self-reflection, encouraging students to explore their interests and goals.
❤️ Supports Reflection and Goal-Setting
Each section’s prompts guide students toward making thoughtful, goal-driven decisions about their future.
❤️ Encourages Future-Ready Planning
A structured approach to postsecondary education and training helps students link today’s choices to tomorrow’s success.
This lesson provides students with a realistic look at their postsecondary options, helping them set a course for success!
Still deciding? Take a peek at the detailed preview or try out the ROI activity and see how it fits your classroom needs!
