Exploring Futures is DYCD’s College and Career initiative that helps young people in grades K-8 connect their interests, strengths, and skills to future possibilities through hands-on learning, career exposure, and real-world experiences. Exploring Futures programming helps youth:​

  • Explore interests and strengths​
  • ​Learn about careers and industries​
  • Build leadership and workforce readiness skills​
  • Connect learning to future opportunities​
  • Develop aspirations through exposure and experience​

How can I implement Exploring Futures at my site?

Elementary & Middle school sites are required to implement 15 hours of career-connected learning during the programming year. 

  • Flexible Scheduling: The 15 required hours can be integrated throughout the program year. Sites can flexibly create schedules based on what works best for your program. 
  • Multiple Ways to Engage: Hours can be fulfilled through Exploring Futures curriculum, hands-on projects, and career exposure opportunities such as field trips, community walks, guest speakers, and career panels.
  • Alignment with DYCD Requirements:
    • Exploring Futures supports COMPASS, Beacon, and Cornerstone sites in fulfilling the 15 hour career exploration requirement for participants in grades K-8. 
      • COMPASS Programs require 15 hours of Intro to College & Career Readiness which can be met through Exploring Futures.  Exploring Futures can also contribute to the 8-hour MS Leadership Development requirement and 15-hour Life Skills Development requirement, when activities intentionally build relevant skills and meet program standards. Additional info can be found here.
      • Beacon programs require 15 hours of Exploring Futures programming in grades K-8. Additional info can be found here. 
      • Cornerstone programs require 15 hours of Exploring Futures programming in grades 6-8.  Additional info can be found here.

So, where do I start?