Project EDGE: Elevating Diverse Growth and Employment - A CTE Initiative to Bridge Gaps and Empower

The Santa Ana Unified School District (SAUSD) grant project to address significant gaps in equitable access and completion of Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways aligned with regional labor market demands in Orange County’s high-priority sectors: Health, Information Communications Technology (ICT)/Digital Media, and Business & Entrepreneurship. Despite strong local industry partnerships and collaboration with Santa Ana College and California State University, Fullerton, underserved student populations—especially socio-economically disadvantaged, English learners, and students with disabilities—face barriers such as limited exposure, insufficient resources, and low pathway completion rates. The project aims to expand and enhance CTE offerings by integrating early career exploration starting in middle school, increasing work-based learning opportunities, and building seamless K-16 pathways to certifications and degrees. These efforts target high-growth, high-wage occupations, with a focus on closing equity gaps by improving access, academic support, mentoring, and outreach, thereby preparing a diverse and skilled workforce aligned with regional labor market projections.

The K14 Pathway Quality Strategies Work Plan for SAUSD focuses on strengthening college and career readiness through targeted initiatives in Career Exploration, Postsecondary Transition and Completion, and Work-Based Learning across key sectors: ICT/Digital Media, Health, and Business. For students in grades 7-12, the plan includes district-wide events, virtual career awareness panels, pathway showcases, personalized counseling, dual enrollment opportunities, industry mentorships, and hands-on camps to foster early exposure, skill development, and smooth transitions to postsecondary education and careers. Special attention is given to underserved populations such as Students with Disabilities, English Learners, and Latinx students through tailored supports, mentoring, and outreach efforts. Partner institutions including Santa Ana College, California State University Fullerton, and Vital Link collaborate to provide articulated credits, industry credentials, and career guidance. The program aims to impact over 7,000 students and 300 staff by improving academic success, social-emotional wellbeing, and equitable access to high-demand, high-wage pathways, ensuring sustainable workforce readiness aligned with regional economic needs.