This guide is here to help BHS students make the most of their high school years while they meet graduation requirements and start building a roadmap for the future. 

Inside, you’ll find details on:

• Graduation requirements – what every student needs to earn their diploma
  
  

• Early college credit – chances to get a head start through dual credit classes or AP coursework
  
  

• Career Pathways programs – sequences of career-focused classes that can include college credit, workplace learning, and even industry credentials
  
  

• Career Readiness & ICAP – tools to help students explore interests, set goals, and plan for life after high school
  
  

We encourage students and families to use this site as a resource and reach out to school counselors anytime, they’re here to help you explore your options and make the best choices for your journey.

Course Planning & Career Readiness at Bettendorf

Bettendorf students can choose from a wide range of courses that meet graduation requirements while helping them explore interests and potential career paths. Students are encouraged to plan carefully and take advantage of our elective offerings.

Career Readiness Curriculum

All students participate in Bettendorf’s Career Readiness Curriculum, designed to connect learning today with future opportunities. Students:

• Explore all 16 career clusters and related pathways

• Learn how classroom learning connects to real-world careers

• Build skills and confidence for life after graduation
  
  

In Bettendorf, career exploration begins in elementary and middle school, preparing students to explore pathways more deeply in high school through Career Center courses and experiences.

Career Readiness Advisory Lessons

Through advisory lessons, students:

• Learn why career exploration matters

• Identify interests and strengths

• Use course selection to explore pathways and develop skills
  
  

Individual Career and Academic Planning (ICAP)

Starting in 8th grade, every student creates an ICAP—a personalized plan that connects courses to future goals. ICAPs are:

• Developed with parents/guardians, counselors, and teachers

• Built during Career Readiness Lessons

• Updated as interests and goals evolve