Seattle Public Schools

High School, Postsecondary, and Career Planning

Career and College Readiness

Helping Students Become Career and College Ready

A Career is more than just a job.  Career ready is to be a life-long learner. Seattle Schools is dedicated to supporting students exploration of interests, strengths and skills that will support them in the future. Career preparation is a combination of course work, knowledge, employ-ability and self-management skills.  Seattle Schools offers a variety of ways for students to experience a variety of activities that support the development of personal Career goals. 

In order to help students learn to set goals, identify solutions, explore careers and plan for career training opportunities, students will complete their High School and Beyond Plan using Naviance. The High School and Beyond Plan, helps student identify opportunities and meet graduation requirements while aligning with the students’ career interests.  Learn more about Naviance.

Career Readiness

Career Readiness is about learning and demonstrating skills that will make our students successful at whatever career their choose.  Students develop goals, identify career and personal interests and strengths. Students learn teamwork,  leadership, professionalism, problem solving and how to use technology in a professional setting. 

College Readiness

There are many steps students should take to be prepared for college. One of the most important steps in planning for college is to ensure that you are academically prepared. Current high school graduation requirements differ from college entrance requirements. This means that students and families must clearly understand what colleges require when selecting high school courses. 

Some high school courses offer students the ability to earn college and high school credit. These Dual-Credit opportunities support student success in college. 

Dual Credit Courses

Dual Credit programs allow students to take college-level courses while still in high school. Students may become eligible for college credit based on scores obtained in the year-end examinations and through taking college-level classes either at their high school or at colleges and universities.

Benefits of dual credit

  • Many allow you to stay on your high school campus and receive college credit.
  • Take advantage of free or low-cost tuition.
  • Earn both high school and college credit for completing high school courses.
  • Save on college tuition before you graduate from high school.
  • Enjoy an opportunity to explore career fields before high school graduation.
  • Gain practical skills that will be useful regardless of post high school plans.
  • Enhance your resume with Dual Credit credits.
  • Earn College credits that are considered in determining military pay. 

Seattle schools offers students Dual credit opportunities such as Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, College in the High School, CTE Dual Credit and Running Start.

In order to join any branch of the military the student must be 18 years old, or 17 with consent. They must be a U.S. Citizen or resident alien, have graduated or have their G.E.D., and must take the ASVAB and a physical exam.  Military Recruiters can visit each of our high schools. In addition they may meet with students who request additional information. 

Dual Credit CTE

A Dual Credit CTE course contains a signed articulation agreement between Seattle Public Schools (Career and Technical Education) and at least one community/technical college. Students earn both High School and college credits while taking classes at the High School. Dual Credit CTE Courses are also part of many of the CTE Graduation Pathway options.

To learn more about Dual Credit CTE, talk with your Career Connected Learning Coordinator or CTE Teacher.

Career and Technical Education

Career and Technical Education (CTE) is a planned program of courses and learning experiences that begins with exploration of career options, supports academic and life skills, and enables achievement of high academic standards, leadership, and preparation for career and college. Learn more about Career and Technical Education. Students can connect with industry experts, professional mentors, earn career specific certifications and more.

Two students hold plants at Skills Center course

Military

The Department of Defense oversee the United State Military. It is the largest employer in the world. Students have opportunities for diverse careers, training and travel.  There are several branches of the military, each with a different mission and culture. The military may offer college scholarships or enlistment bonuses.

  • Army
  • Marine Corps
  • Navy
  • Air Force
  • Coast Guard