As we begin a new school year, the Chamber looks forward to continuing our work in education. Through the VenangoREADY program, we actively look for ways to support our local educators to help provide resources and meaningful opportunities for our emerging workforce.

Our efforts also include partnering with local schools, the Venango County United Way, IU6, and other industry partners to be helpful to schools in fulfilling state requirements, specifically Chapter 339 and the Keystone Pathways to Graduation.

Pennsylvania requires all school districts to have a K-12 Guidance Plan as required by Chapter 339 Career and Technical Education Standards. The purpose of 339 is to support the importance of career planning and future readiness for all students beginning in Kindergarten and includes a career plan, portfolio, and strategies to engage with the local career and technical center.

For PA public school students graduating in 2023 or later, Act 158 requires schools to provide alternative Pathways to Graduate through one of five pathways that show college, career, and community readiness. Pathway #5, the “evidence-based pathway”, includes completing Industry-recognized credentials. The Chamber is currently working with the IU6 to qualify VenangoREADY for that requirement.

If you or your business would like to get involved with these efforts, please contact Kat at the Chamber.

Wishing everyone a safe and happy school year!

To learn more about the Chamber’s involvement in education, join our email list at: www.venangoready.org or view the education page at: www.venangochamber.org/education

This article was published in the Venango Chamber’s September 2022 VenangoWorks! Newsletter.