The Greater Phoenix Chamber Foundation (Foundation) is looking for businesses interested in developing the future workforce. The Foundation is piloting a new initiative to companies to more closely engage with high schools by aligning classes and curriculum with workforce needs, increasing student exposure to career pathways, and creating opportunities for students to apply academics through work-based learning.
By 2028, 70% of all jobs in Arizona will require an education beyond a high school diploma.[i] Currently, Arizona has a state-wide graduation rate of 78%[ii], and yet only 27% of high school graduates complete a postsecondary education by their mid-twenties.[iii] Through this new initiative, the Foundation aims to strengthen Arizona’s future by closing the achievement gap by intentionally aligning employers with tomorrow’s talent at the K-12 level.
Jobs requiring Higher-ed
Graduates Completing Higher-ed
Goal
To prepare individuals for college and career through stronger alignment between education, business, and the community.
Starting with Purpose: Academies at South Mountain Pilot
The Foundation has partnered with the Phoenix Union High School District (PXU) in order to pilot more strategic and impactful business engagement in local high schools. PXU recently transformed one of their larger comprehensive campuses, South Mountain High School, into an Academy-model school, offering four industry-based schools on one campus:
Aerospace & Engineering
Media, Arts & Design
Science & Technology
Public & Social Service
Through intentional school engagement, business can impact and support students as they discover a path toward a high-wage career or high-quality degree program that meets their interests and talents.
Businesses can engage in many ways, including:
- Guest Speakers
- Guest Instructors
- Teacher Externships
- Curriculum Development
- Job Shadowing
- Field Trips
- Advisory Boards
- Internships
- Apprenticeships
Get Involved Today!
We are seeking businesses interested in participating in the pilot with the Academies at South Mountain. Contact Education Partnership Manager Kim Vegliante at kvegliante@phoenixchamber.com if you would like to get involved.