About Us

With the Illinois State Board of Education focusing on preparing students for high-skill, high-demand careers, Thornton Fractional High School District 215’s Department for Career Development has become essential in helping students build the skills they need to succeed in the workforce. The department’s main goal is to help students set themselves up for success, whether that’s through better earnings or a better quality of life.

The department prioritizes giving students more opportunities to get hands-on training in high-demand fields, while also focusing on career exploration and development. Students are encouraged to explore different career paths and gain insights into the skills and qualifications they need. In addition, the department integrates financial literacy to ensure students understand money management, budgeting, and planning for their future.

Another key aspect is helping students with post-secondary education—whether that’s exploring options, preparing for college or vocational programs, or selecting the right path for them. This includes offering dual and concurrent enrollment courses, providing access to post-secondary certifications, and supporting students who want to earn an Associate of Arts degree.

The Department for Career Development is committed to making sure all these programs work together to help students succeed. By working closely with community partners and ensuring that students have the right resources and support, the department prepares them for both immediate career opportunities and long-term education goals, ensuring they are equipped to succeed in today’s competitive job market.

Initiatives:

Increase awareness of CTE program offerings to all stakeholders (students, teachers, parents, community partners, etc…)
Increase the available dual-enrollment courses offered by the district
Ensure that all students enrolled in a dual-enrollment course within the district is registered to receive college credit
Utilize Naviance to assist with career planning for students
Create an ongoing career portfolio for each student
Facilitate early articulation with our feeder schools

Resources and Opportunities:

CTE Career Fair
CTE Trades Fair
Academic Showcase
Career development portfolio
College & career readiness speaker series
Work-based learning
Enhanced knowledge and experiences within various careers
Relevant experience and life skills to prepare them for post-secondary education and/or employment