Middle school is a critical time for students to begin exploring careers. At this stage, students are developing interests, building confidence, and beginning to imagine their future. When schools introduce career exploration early, students gain a better understanding of how their learning connects to real-world opportunities.
Providing structured career exploration in grades 6–8 helps students discover their strengths, explore career pathways, and begin thinking about the education and skills required for different careers.
This guide highlights the research behind middle school career exploration, key frameworks that support effective programs, and examples of how states are implementing career readiness initiatives in the middle grades.
Download the guide to learn more about:
Why career exploration should start in middle school
National standards that support career readiness
How states are expanding career exploration in grades 6–8
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