Why a Career Technical Education Preparatory?

• Meeting Industry Needs: CTE programs, like the one at Future Is Now, directly address the demand for skilled workers in growing sectors, such as the green energy economy. By focusing on areas like electric vehicle conversion and renewable energy, the school ensures students are prepared for jobs that are not only in demand but also vital for the future and jobs that are AI proof.
• Hands-On Skills in an Automated World: While AI and automation are changing many job landscapes, they also create a demand for workers who can build, install, maintain, and repair physical infrastructure. Hands-on skills, such as those taught in CTE programs, are crucial and less susceptible to being fully automated.
• Adaptability and Innovation: The school's focus on entrepreneurship and business development, combined with technical training, prepares students to be adaptable and innovative. They will not just be workers, but also potential leaders and entrepreneurs who can develop new solutions in a changing world.
• Pathways to High-Wage Careers: Through pre-apprenticeship programs and union partnerships, students gain access to high-skilled, high-wage jobs, offering an alternative to traditional college pathways that might not suit every student]. This ensures a viable and prosperous career path.
• Real-World Experience: CTE programs like Future Is Now provide students with real-world, practical experience that is highly valued by employers. This experience gives students a competitive edge in the job market and helps them to be ready for employment immediately after graduation.
• Personalized Career Pathways: The emphasis on individualized learning plans ensures that each student is prepared for their chosen career path, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. This helps each student develop the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in their chosen field.

What is Future Is Now CTE Prep?

Future Is Now CTE Prep is a forward-thinking public charter high school in Los Angeles focused on Career Technical Education (CTE). The school is designed to prepare students for real-world success by equipping them with career skills and hands-on work experience. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, career readiness, and real-world applications.

When will the school open?

• Future Is Now CTE Prep will open in August 2025, starting with 9th grade .

Where is the school located?

The school is located at LA Trade Tech.  (400 W Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019)

Is there a cost to attend?

• Nope, its FREE- a free, public charter school!

What is the school's vision?

The vision is to offer a rigorous CTE program that provides students with pre-apprenticeship pathways to high-skilled, high-wage union jobs or post-secondary education. It aims to disrupt poverty by preparing students for the green energy economy.

What kind of learning environment does the school offer?

• Individualized Learning: Every student has a Personalized Learning and Development Plan (PLDP) to guide them through high school. The school has a small school model to ensure each student receives personalized attention.
• Self-Directed Learning: The school offers adaptations to the timetable allowing for self-directed learning time to support students with learning gaps and those ready to accelerate. There is flexibility in the schedule for self-directed learning and teacher-facilitated lessons].
• Mastery-Based Grading: Achievement is measured by skills mastered and competency. Credits are awarded based on mastery, allowing students to self-pace through course requirements.
• Hands-on learning: The educational model emphasizes hands-on learning, career readiness, and real-world applications. The school uses project-based learning in green technology and business.

What is the focus of the CTE program?

The CTE program focuses on green technology with an emphasis on electrician pathways and converting diesel buses to electric vehicles. The school also teaches entrepreneurship and business development.

What kind of partnerships does the school have?

The school has several partnerships:

• IBEW Local 11 (electrician's union): Students will have unique experiences with mentors and job training with IBEW Local 11.
• Los Angeles Trade Tech College: Students have the possibility of earning an Associate's Degree by the time they finish high school through dual enrollment opportunities [6-8].
• Centinela Youth Services: Partner to open a new CTE Prep Charter High School in Los Angeles.
• more to come...

What certifications and opportunities are available?

Students will have access to industry-standard certifications and the possibility of earning an Associate's Degree by the time they finish high school. The school provides pre-apprenticeship pathways.

What is a typical school day like?

• The school day starts at 7:15 am with a free breakfast available.  Classes begin between 8:30-9am depending on the day.
• Students attend all classes on Mondays, and 3 class periods on Tuesdays/Thursdays and Wednesdays/Fridays.
• Students engage in a warm-up task upon entering their classrooms.
• Teachers check in with students at the beginning of class to ensure they are ready to engage.
• Students participate in collaborative learning environments with high expectations.
• The day ends with advisory, where students develop connections with peers and teachers, and work on college readiness, leadership, and youth development.
• After-school enrichment programs, tutoring, student-run clubs, and fitness are available..

How does the school support its teachers?

• The school is committed to creating a teacher apprenticeship Climate Corp, offering educators opportunities to grow, learn, and innovate.
• There is an emphasis on professional development in CTE instructional strategies and student-centered learning.
• There is a collaborative environment that emphasizes teacher-student partnerships, and union participation..

Who are the key people involved?

• Founder: Steve Barr, also the founder of Green Dot Public Schools and co-founder of University Prep Schools in South Bronx, NY.
• Founding Principal: Dr. Mara Simmons, former principal of Animo Leadership, founding principal of eCALS on the Sotomayor Learning Complex, and designed/lead a teacher training program for academic and CTE teachers in the UK.

Why is CTE important, especially considering future career prospects and AI?

• Meeting Industry Needs: CTE programs, like the one at Future Is Now, directly address the demand for skilled workers in growing sectors, such as the green energy economy. By focusing on areas like electric vehicle conversion and renewable energy, the school ensures students are prepared for jobs that are not only in demand but also vital for the future and jobs that are AI proof.
• Hands-On Skills in an Automated World: While AI and automation are changing many job landscapes, they also create a demand for workers who can build, install, maintain, and repair physical infrastructure. Hands-on skills, such as those taught in CTE programs, are crucial and less susceptible to being fully automated.
• Adaptability and Innovation: The school's focus on entrepreneurship and business development, combined with technical training, prepares students to be adaptable and innovative. They will not just be workers, but also potential leaders and entrepreneurs who can develop new solutions in a changing world.
• Pathways to High-Wage Careers: Through pre-apprenticeship programs and union partnerships, students gain access to high-skilled, high-wage jobs, offering an alternative to traditional college pathways that might not suit every student]. This ensures a viable and prosperous career path.
• Real-World Experience: CTE programs like Future Is Now provide students with real-world, practical experience that is highly valued by employers. This experience gives students a competitive edge in the job market and helps them to be ready for employment immediately after graduation.
• Personalized Career Pathways: The emphasis on individualized learning plans ensures that each student is prepared for their chosen career path, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. This helps each student develop the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in their chosen field.

How can I get involved?

• If you are interested in joining the Future Is Now team as a teacher, or want more information, you can contact Mara Simmons at [email protected].
• If you are interested in enrolling your child (8th grade or not finished 9th grade) please complete this form: https://forms.gle/BQ928PLsVNbyhxxbA

Looking forward to working with YOU!