News & Media
The SDJ communication office shares important college and career events and is the main point of contact for all media inquiries. This page includes recent press releases. For social media updates, “like” School District of Janesville on Facebook and follow the SDJ - Janesville on Twitter.
“Getting kids out of chairs, getting rid of the rows and empowering our kids to really be engaged in learning day in and day out,” Superintendent Steve Pophal said.
Students told to master skills now in demand
MILTON, Wis. (WMTV)--- As part of National Manufacturing Day, hundreds of students in Southern Wisconsin had a special opportunity to learn about careers in high-need technical fields.
Blackhawk Technical College, Rock County 5.0, the School District of Janesville and 26 different employers hosted more than 600 area high school students as part of an effort to change perceptions about today's manufacturing environment and draw attention to the outstanding opportunities that a career in manufacturing can provide.
High school students from 12 different schools and seven different school districts visited Blackhawk Technical College's Advanced Manufacturing Training Center for an overview of BTC's manufacturing programs while touring the high tech facility. Students also visited two different businesses in the region to see demonstrations, presentations and learn more about job opportunities in a variety of manufacturing professions.
"Manufacturing Day is going to provide an opportunity for the next generation of our workforce to see the industry in action and learn about the many well-paying careers it offers," said Dr. Tracy Pierner, Blackhawk Technical College President. "Through partnerships with local manufacturing firms, the Janesville School District and Rock County 5.0, more than 600 students will get direct exposure to several meaningful career possibilities."
"One of our promises to the community is centered on student and school success," said Steve Pophal, Superintendent of the School District of Janesville. "Manufacturing Day is a great example of providing students with access to local manufacturers who need skilled workers, and it allows students to see how Blackhawk Technical College can help them continue on their pathway of success."
Manufacturing Day is an annual national event supported by thousands of manufacturers as they host students, teachers, parents, job seekers and other local community members at open houses, plant tours and presentations designed to showcase modern manufacturing technology and careers.
College readiness indicators include a grade-point average of 2.8 or higher out of 4.0 and one or more of these:
-- A 3 or higher on an Advanced Placement exam
-- A grade of A, B or C in an AP class
-- Algebra II
-- A dual credit course in English or math
-- Minimum ACT scores of 18 in English, 22 in reading, 23 in science and 22 in math.
Career readiness indicators include having an identified career interest and two or more of these:
-- 90 percent attendance in school
-- 25 hours of community service
-- A workplace learning experience
-- An industry credential
-- A dual credit course
-- Two or more organized co-curricular activities.
Student and School Success
Every student is known by name, strength, need; and every student graduates ready for college, career, and life.
Every student is known by name, strength, and need by at least one adult.
Teachers will increase/focus instruction from direct to engaged and empowered instructional opportunities.
90% of 3rd graders will read at or above grade level.
90% of 9th graders will successfully complete Algebra I.
90% of graduates will successfully complete an advanced placement, transcripted, industry credential, or dual enrollment credit class.
90% of graduates will complete college ready indicators as detailed at redefiningready.org.
90% of graduates will complete career ready indicators as detailed at redefiningready.org.
Increase graduation rate by 1% each year to 92% rate for 2022.
100% of students will have an academic and career plan that includes a post high school plan.
Relationships
Efficient, effective, and caring interactions with our students, parents, and community.
Place in the top 15% of comparative Studer districts in parent and employee surveys.
Establish a 5-year rolling rate for grades 5-12 with the Gallup Hope student survey.
Culture and Climate
Challenging, fulfilling and enjoyable work environment for our employees.
Maintain a certified staff retention rate at a minimum of 95%.
Increase non-certified staff retention rate by 1% each year to 93% for 2022.
All staff will participate in ongoing job-embedded professional development.
Finance
Continuous monitoring and re-alignment of district resources.
Maintain a balanced budget.
Utilize the SDJ capital improvement plan to maintain district infrastructure/buildings and honors past investments.
Utilize the SDJ information technology plan that is forward looking and supports student needs.
Prioritize energy/resource efficiency solutions and improvements.
Develop and implement employee compensation models that recruit and retain talented staff and are sustainable under the current state aid system.
Health and Safety
Prioritize the safety, health, and wellness of our school community.
Maintain student immunization rates above 90%.
Maintain a low accident rate while striving for zero accidents.
Maintain employee HRA/Biometrics participation rate at 95% or higher.
Maintain a minimum 5-year rolling average score of 4.5 out of 5.0 as reported by parents in response to the survey question, “School promotes a safe environment for my child to learn.”
contact information
Curriculum Coordinator
christopher.maedke@janesville.k12.wi.us
Chris Maedke 608-743-5037