OAKLAND – On Tuesday, May 19, SAP will introduce a landmark partnership with the Oakland Unified School District (OUSD), Berkeley City College (BCC), and the Career Ladders Project to create a pathway that lets Skyline High students earn associate degrees in business systems, information technology, and related fields.
Participants in the program will also acquire technical skills, professional certifications, mentorship, and workplace-learning opportunities that provide a substantial advantage when competing for advanced educational programs and jobs in the highly competitive technology industry.
“Initiatives like this not only make college seem more attainable for students from diverse backgrounds, they offer the preparation needed to thrive in school and career. It’s the perfect expression of the Linked Learning approach,” said Oakland Unified School District Superintendent Antwan Wilson.
Starting in the 2015-16 school year, Skyline and OUSD will use a $400,000 grant from SAP to partner with Berkeley City College, Peralta Community College District, and the Career Ladders Project to create a seamless information technology and digital media pathway stretching from Grades 9 through 14. The partners will collaborate on curriculum development, policy changes, schedule integration, data sharing, and academic and support services in order to create a completely integrated, continuous learning experience that takes students from freshman year to receipt of their Associates Degree.
As a result of this program, Skyline students will:
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- receive more information about their academic progression and career pathway options
- understand the processes used to apply to college, enroll, and obtain financial aid
- earn early college credit aligned with their career pathway and post-secondary goals
- matriculate in college at a higher rate
- avoid remedial courses
- complete community college and/or transfer to four-year universities at a higher rate