Description:

ASPIRE 1 is the foundation, designed to introduce students to the "soft" or applied skills needed to enter into the workforce. Skills such as teamwork, decision-making, and communication will help students become effective employees. The additional skills of a strong work ethic, initiative, and interpersonal skills will also be addressed. This course will provide students with an opportunity to learn the "basics" of soft skills. The topics will provide a basic foundation for students to strengthen their in-school productivity and out-of-school workforce readiness skills.

ASPIRE 1 will focus on six major areas: communication, enthusiasm & attitude, teamwork, networking, problem solving & critical thinking, and professionalism. In addition to whole group learning and activities, students will journal to allow time for personal reflection. In sub-context, students will be enhancing their skills in reading, writing, math, and organization.

Focus areas will have multiple activities allowing for initial understanding of the topic followed by activities to practice and reinforce those skills. Independent reflection will help move that learning from short-term into long-term memory. The skill focus will conclude with a variety of extension activities to help promote communication and collaboration.