K–12 Continuum of Career Exploration — detail sections

Career Awareness

Elementary School

At the elementary level, students in grades TK–5 begin their journey into the world of work through career awareness. This includes guided lessons that help them explore personal interests, identify their strengths and learn about the wide range of  jobs within our community. School counselors introduce foundational concepts about careers through engaging lessons and activities that highlight  different professions, spark curiosity about why people work, and build understanding of the skills needed for carious career tasks. 

Career awareness activities may include college and career dress up days or spirit weeks, career-focused classroom projects, field trips, and visits from guest speakers who share their professional experiences.

Career Exploration

Middle School

In middle school, students in grades 6–8 move from career awareness to career exploration. They begin to understand the wide range of careers available across different environments, disciplines, and skill sets. School counselors support this exploration by helping students complete self-inventories to identify interests, conduct research on potential workplace paths and learn how high school course selection connects to Career Technical Education (CTE) pathway and academic planning. 

Career exploration activities may include career assessments, college and career fairs, field trips, high school kick-off assemblies that introduce CTE pathways and support academic planning.

Career Preparation

High School

In high school, students in grades 9–12 embark on career planning and preparation. This stage is crucial for charting individual paths. Students undergo rigorous course selection and preparations towards post-secondary opportunities. As ninth graders, students complete aptitude tests and draft their ten-year plan.

Beginning in 10th grade, school counselors guide students through yearly aptitude tests, career skill-set research, self-inventory lessons and help build a comprehensive academic plan that aligns with their chosen path, such as Career and Technical Education (CTE), college credit courses, or other career pursuits like the military or trade schools.

Career Training

6–12 CTE Pathways

Career and Technical Education (CTE) is a hallmark of Murrieta Valley USD success. Each high school offers opportunities with relevant academic rigor and industry experiences to pursue specific careers. The district offers twelve different career pathways aligned to industry standards to prepare students for high-wage, high-skill, and in-demand careers.

Students can earn industry certifications granting them real-world experience and valuable skills. In 2023, over 1,200 students earned career certificates, credentials, or college credits.

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