Welcome Parents and Families
Acceler8 is Durham Public Schools' annual career exploration event designed to introduce 8th-grade students to a variety of careers, industries, and educational pathways. Through hands-on activities and interactions with business and community partners, students will begin connecting their interests and strengths to future opportunities.
Students will:
Participate in hands-on career exploration activities.
Meet employers and industry professionals.
Learn about high school Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways.
Discover careers aligned with their interests and strengths.
Durham Public Schools utilizes career development planning tools to help students:
Identify interests, skills, and strengths.
Explore careers and career clusters.
Set educational and career goals.
Develop plans for high school and beyond.
Families are encouraged to discuss career interests and future plans with their students throughout the year.
To ensure a successful experience, students should:
Follow school and district expectations.
Be respectful of presenters and volunteers.
Actively participate in activities.
Remain with their assigned group.
Wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
Is transportation provided?
Transportation arrangements will be coordinated by each school.
Is there a cost to attend?
No. Acceler8 is provided at no cost to students.
Can parents attend?
Acceler8 is designed as a school-sponsored student event. Schools will communicate any volunteer opportunities.
What should students wear?
Students should wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking and participating in interactive activities.
Who should I contact with questions?
Please contact your School Counselor, or school administration team.
We encourage families to continue career conversations at home. Discuss the careers and pathways your student explored during Acceler8 and how they connect to their interests and goals. These conversations support your student's Career Development Plan (CDP) and help them begin planning for future success.