Education Systems Center at Northern Illinois University (EdSystems) is a mission-driven policy development and program implementation center. We foster collaborative partnerships to design, implement, and evaluate policies and practices that ensure successful transitions to and through postsecondary and career opportunities for students, with a particular emphasis on historically marginalized populations.
Middle school career exploration programs are designed to introduce young students to a wide range of careers and professional pathways at an early stage. In a new article, we consider the inherent risks of exposing students to career options at an early age and recommend key considerations for designing equitable work-based learning for middle grade students.
Utilizing data to inform policy and programs designs is essential to EdSystems’ mission. Learn about our data principles, vision, and equity-centered approach.
In 2024, the Illinois Education and Career Success Network supported Leadership Communities, launched innovative data tools, and advanced equitable education and career pathways for Illinois students. Explore more key highlights in this year in review.
Learn about community insights on navigating employer partnerships, including growing employer partnerships, balancing paid vs. unpaid internships, and aligning student interests with industry needs.
Learn how students perceive work-based learning opportunities at their schools, what barriers they identify, and how conversations with counselors and administrators helped address those challenges.
Many people assume middle school students are too young for career exploration, but by encouraging self-discovery and exploring real-world challenges, we can help these young people pursue their futures. Here are key considerations for work-based learning in middle school.
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