SMART FUTURES-

Pennsylvania is the first state in the United States to require that all students graduate with a personalized career plan and portfolio that is tied to clearly defined K-12 career education benchmarks. These benchmarks called the Pennsylvania Academic Standards for Career Education and Work (CEW Standards) provide the curriculum road map that assures that all students are prepared for 21st century success. Smart Futures provides educators with a K-12 career planning and portfolio platform that helps schools easily implement the CEW Standards within any classroom or virtually. 

Students will utilize the tools and information that Smart Futures provides in a variety of ways throughout elementary, middle and high school.  

All Wilson Middle School students have a Smart Futures account and can access it at their convenience via the Smart Futures website.  Students will be provided with lessons and opportunities to complete activities in Smart Futures that will not only aid in their career and life exploration and readiness, but upon completion will also fulfill the Pennsylvania state requirement for Career Education and Work Standards. 

BCTC

Berks Career & Technology Center (BCTC) provides an opportunity for students in Berks County to explore specific career areas of interest and receive hands-on training.  Many BCTC students will obtain the certifications and experiences to directly enter the workforce or apply to trade programs, two-year and/or four-year colleges.

Students are introduced to BCTC during middle school as they tour the campuses and learn about the programs of study.  As 9th graders, they will have additional opportunities to learn about the programs and opportunities available through BCTC as well as visit one of the two BCTC campuses if they choose.  The majority of students interested in attending BCTC will apply in the fall of their 9th grade year and complete a program throughout 10th-12th grades.  There may be opportunities for students to apply to certain programs after 10th grade, including one 12th Grade-only program in Medical Health Professions. Interested students are encouraged to explore BCTC’s website and program offerings so they can discuss options with their counselor.