Engaging External Audiences

Transcription

1 COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT FOR Engaging External Audiences Visit LinkedLearning.org

2 Table of Contents Business leaders Talking Points... 3 Best Practices Tip Sheet for Communicating with Business Leaders... 5 Frequently Asked Questions... 7 Business Leader Fact Sheet Template Introductory /Letter to Business Leaders Phone Outreach to Business Leaders Tips and Script Business Leader Recruitment Meeting Script and Tips Business Leader (Chamber, Rotary, or Association) Meeting Script and Tips Template PowerPoint Slides Template Employee Newsletter Article Template Business Leader Blog Post Template Business Partnership Press Release Policymakers Talking Points Best Practices Tip Sheet for Communicating with Policymakers Frequently Asked Questions Policymaker Fact Sheet Template Introductory /Letter to Policymakers and Their Staff Policymaker Meeting Script and Tips Template PowerPoint Slides Linked Learning, the Common Core State Standards, and New Assessments Potential Community Partners Talking Points Best Practices Tip Sheet for Communicating with Potential Community Partners Frequently Asked Questions Potential Community Partner Fact Sheet Template Introductory /Letter to Potential Community Partners Phone Outreach to Potential Community Partners Tips and Script Potential Community Partner Meeting Script and Tips Template PowerPoint Slides... 79

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4 Introduction Thank you for your interest in Linked Learning and your commitment to expanding educational opportunities for all California students. Successful implementation of new Linked Learning pathways and expansion of existing ones will require the efforts of everyone, not just those most closely connected to schools. That is why we provided this toolkit to help with outreach to external groups, including business leaders, policymakers, and other potential community partners. This toolkit also includes a variety of tools and templates to help business leaders spread the word about their involvement with Linked Learning. Linked Learning s long-term success will depend on the contributions and active participation of these groups to help ensure that pathways are aligned with the realities of the 21 st century economy and the political landscape. The toolkit is a guide and resource and is organized by audience. Within each section, you ll find materials that are specifically tailored to each group and that will help guide outreach and communications at every step of the way. Refer to this toolkit often and make use of the messaging documents, such as the talking points, fact sheets, and frequently asked questions. Before conducting any outreach, you should practice your approach and make sure you feel comfortable before you start any conversation or communication. These materials were developed with the support and help of The James Irvine Foundation, the Linked Learning Alliance, and ConnectEd: The California Center for College and Career, as well as with advice from Stanford Center for Opportunity Policy in Education (SCOPE), the National Academy Foundation, America s Edge, Hanson Consulting Group. This document also incorporates the feedback of California educators in the Linked Learning District Initiative who attended communications trainings in Oakland, Los Angeles, and San Francisco in March We encourage any interested organizations and individuals to take advantage of this toolkit to contribute to this statewide effort to transform education. For more resources and assistance, please contact Tanja Hester at (530) or tanja.hester@gmmb.com. FOR EXTERNAL AUDIENCES p 1

5 Business, large corporate, industry, and union leaders FOR EXTERNAL AUDIENCES p 2

6 Talking Points Basic Definition: By integrating rigorous academics with career-based learning and real world workplace experience, Linked Learning is transforming education for California s students, helping them excel in college, career, and life. Primary (for All Audiences): Linked Learning is transforming education in California by integrating rigorous academics with career-based learning and real-world workplace experiences. When students love what they re learning, they work harder, dream bigger, and learn more. Linked Learning is turning secondary education into a personally relevant, engaging experience for any student, exposing them to previously unimagined college and career opportunities. Linked Learning ignites students passions by creating meaningful learning experiences in career-oriented pathways in fields such as engineering, health care, performing arts, law, and more. Linked Learning is helping to create an engaged and productive future workforce for California. Linked Learning students graduate ready to succeed in college, career, and life. Research shows that compared to traditional high schools the Linked Learning approach results in greater rates of persistence and higher graduation rates for all students. Secondary (for All Audiences): Students in the Linked Learning approach understand how their high school education leads to their next academic or career steps. Students engage in professional learning via job shadowing, apprenticeships, internships, and professional skill-building before they leave high school. They begin to understand all the possible choices available to them. Employers are critical to making Linked Learning work. Employers provide essential work-based learning opportunities for students. Students interact with professionals in California s top industries in real-world settings and graduate with a clear understanding of what they need to do to be successful in any postsecondary education program or career. Linked Learning creates more opportunity for students to discover new aspirations and graduate with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in college and career. Linked Learning improves equity for all California students. It inspires students who may never have imagined going to college to excel in high school, graduate, and succeed in college and life. Linked Learning prepares high school students for a full range of post-graduation opportunities. It combines academics and professional skills which are both necessary for a complete education and a successful future. Improving educational achievement for all students will require the help of entire communities including business leaders, parents, community organizations, and higher education working together with educators as stakeholders in the public education of their communities. FOR EXTERNAL AUDIENCES p 3

7 Secondary (for Business Leaders): California s employers need a better educated workforce to meet current and future demands. But right now not enough students are graduating high school, and those that do often lack the skills and knowledge to succeed in college and career. Linked Learning pathways are giving students more exposure to California s major industries, giving them a better understanding of the types of career paths and jobs available, and helping them develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. The Linked Learning approach invites employers to partner with schools to ensure that both the academic and professional learning curricula are preparing students to succeed in a career within the pathway s field. Businesses can help invest in the future of their workforce by providing students in Linked Learning pathways with exposure to high-quality work-based learning programs from a variety of industries and sectors. FOR EXTERNAL AUDIENCES p 4

8 Best Practices Tip Sheet for Communicating with Business Leaders Why Speaking to Business Leaders is Important Business and industry leaders have a significant role to play in expanding Linked Learning opportunities through developing partnerships with schools, providing work-based learning opportunities, and ensuring that Linked Learning pathways are relevant to current economic needs and complement rigorous academics. Communicate with business leaders to strengthen work-based learning and leverage their voice and perspective in building support for Linked Learning. It is critical to engage a variety of employers, business leaders, corporations, and organizations to ensure that all of California s industry sectors are involved in expanding Linked Learning and to give students choices among different Linked Learning pathways. For Linked Learning to engage and inspire the passions of all students, it needs to offer opportunities in different industry sectors and show students a full range of possibilities for their future. Finally, the business community is an essential partner in advocating for expanded Linked Learning opportunities. Business leaders lend a credible voice to the argument that Linked Learning will benefit California s workforce and economy. Business leaders involved in Linked Learning can attest to the difference that Linked Learning makes in preparing students for success in college and career. General Communications Tips When speaking with any audience, keep these communications tips in mind: Remember your key messages: Know your audience, venue, and format, as well as questions you might be asked and recent news. Be especially clear about the main message you want to get across and what you want to persuade your audience to do. Prepare your reasons and examples: Having three key points supported by examples will help you communicate your message effectively. While data and statistics are important for providing objective measures of success, it is also important to provide real-world stories that allow you to connect with your audience and give them a clear idea of why Linked Learning works. Be brief: People are busy with many competing priorities. Keep your points and presentations short and concise. Be persuasive: Structuring your arguments carefully will help get your point across clearly and more convincingly. o Begin with a brief background of the situation and context. Describe the issue and why your audience should care. For example: Right now, our system is failing California s students and too many fail to graduate on time. Linked Learning is a promising practice that is helping address this problem by combining rigorous academics with career-based learning and real-world workplace experiences. o Make your recommendation. Adjust your tone depending on whether you are making a request or strongly suggesting an action. For example: You should become a supporter of Linked Learning to help establish new pathways and expand existing ones in your community. o Clearly lay out the reasons for your request or recommendation. List your strongest argument first and your second strongest argument last. For example: I have seen more students at my school complete high school and continue on prepared for college, career, and life. Linked Learning has also opened up new opportunities for businesses to nurture and recruit local talent and to garner positive publicity. o Prescribe the specific action steps that your audience can take to do something about the issue. For example: Start by learning more about Linked Learning at or by taking a tour of a local Linked Learning pathway. You can also join the Linked Learning Alliance ( FOR EXTERNAL AUDIENCES p 5

9 Speak simply: Speak so anyone can understand you. Avoid education jargon. If you must use jargon, explain it. For example: Don t assume everyone knows what the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) are. Explain that they are consistent learning goals in English language arts and mathematics that were adopted by California, as well as 44 other states, the District of Columbia, and the Department of Defense Schools. Things to Consider when Speaking with Business Leaders Expanded Linked Learning opportunities have the potential to benefit business leaders in a direct way. However, many businesses and corporations may be unfamiliar with working collaboratively and closely with schools. As you prepare to speak with representatives of the business community, here are some tips to keep in mind. Emphasize return on investment: Members of the business community may not immediately recognize the importance of being involved in Linked Learning. Remember to emphasize the long-term economic benefits of the Linked Learning approach and how it can contribute to developing a productive workforce in your community and in our state. Companies are results-oriented. Use your communications efforts to help business leaders see that Linked Learning can be a long-term investment in producing successful future employees. Make the case for why it makes sense for them to direct limited resources to being an advisory board member or a partner for Linked Learning pathway. Seeking engagement, not money: Many businesses expect nonprofits and other organizations to ask for money. When you conduct outreach to business on behalf of Linked Learning, remember to be clear that business can contribute to Linked Learning in different ways. Successful Linked Learning pathways require the active participation and input of business leaders, corporations, and unions in shaping and implementing those pathways. A good first step is for a business leader or industry leader to serve on a pathway s advisory committee to help inform projects and other work. Employers and industry leaders also can help develop and implement work-based learning opportunities, internships and externships, support industry-themed projects, and other real-world experiences. Be clear: When you speak with employers, be clear about why or how they are an ideal partner for a specific Linked Learning pathway. Let them know that their industry sector is valuable for Linked Learning students or that the local pathway has a desire to build connections with professionals in their industry. Be brief: Use your time wisely with business leaders, whether it is on the phone or in-person. Their time is valuable. Focus on a few core points to get your message across clearly and quickly. Later, when your outreach is successful, remember to be responsive and share materials and information as quickly as possible. Build relationships: With business leaders, relationships count a lot. The most successful and long-term partnerships are built and nurtured over time. A truly successful partnership between the business community and schools will require patience and continued effort, especially on the part of the school. Focus on building a real, personal relationship with the business leaders you engage. Take the first step: Don t be afraid to start small. Whether that means starting with smaller asks such as a followup conversation or a visit to a Linked Learning school or a small number of outreach targets, your outreach activity should be viewed as the first step in building a relationship that will lead to a more productive partnership. You may also want to start with outreach to smaller companies that have flexibility and a close relationship with the community. Winning the support of the business community and convincing them to play an active role in the expansion of Linked Learning can be accomplished over time. The hardest part is initiating those conversations and getting companies to take that first step. Be persistent: Do not take no personally. Each company, organization, or group will have different priorities at different times. Sometimes working to expand Linked Learning will fit into those business plans; other times it will not. Try to follow as many new leads as possible so that you cast a wide net. Also, look for innovative ways to nurture existing relationships and move them further along to full partnerships. FOR EXTERNAL AUDIENCES p 6

10 Frequently Asked Questions General Questions about Linked Learning Q: What is Linked Learning? A: Linked Learning is an approach to education that transforms the traditional school experience by bringing together strong academics, career-based classroom learning, and real-world workplace experience to help students gain an advantage in high school, postsecondary education, and career. Students can choose among industry-themed pathways in fields such as engineering, arts and media, and biomedicine and health. Pathways connect learning with student interests and career aspirations, making their high school education personally relevant and providing them with experimental learning experiences beyond the classroom where they can engage with working adults on important problems. This type of education leads to higher graduation rates, increased postsecondary enrollment, higher earning potential, and greater civic engagement. All pathways, by design, offer students a college preparatory education, leaving the door open for students to pursue any career goal or interest after high school. Q: How does Linked Learning work and what are its components? A: Linked Learning pathways currently offer high school students from grades 9 through 12 a rigorous academic curriculum integrated with a career focus and work-based learning opportunities in and out of the classroom. This approach prepares students for the full range of postsecondary options. Linked Learning can be implemented using different models and in various settings. Linked Learning also can be applied in middle school or even earlier, as well as in college-level learning. All Linked Learning pathways include: A rigorous academic component that includes English, mathematics, science, history, and other pertinent courses. A technical component of three or more courses that help students gain the knowledge and skills that can give them a head start on a successful career. Students engage in job shadowing, apprenticeships, and internships, before they leave high school, helping them to understand all the possible choices available to them. Personalized support services including resume and interview counseling and supplemental instruction in reading, writing, and mathematics that help students master critical academic and career-based components of their education. Q: Why Linked Learning? A: Linked Learning addresses some of the fundamental challenges facing California s high schools. Many traditional academic programs do not feel relevant to students lives and aspirations. At the same time, traditional career and technical education (CTE) often lacks the academic rigor required for access to and success in college. Linked Learning provides students of all levels and abilities with the best possible chance for success to excel in college and career. Q: Are Linked Learning pathways proven to be effective? A: The Linked Learning approach already has transformed the lives of thousands of students in California. Districts and schools currently offering a Linked Learning approach consistently demonstrate better student outcomes than traditional high schools. Research shows that compared to traditional high schools the Linked Learning approach results in greater rates of persistence and higher graduation rates for all students. Studies show that the approach can raise academic achievement, increase earning power, and improve collegegoing rates. Though Linked Learning is a relatively new model for improving education, research supports the case for making the Linked Learning approach a focus of high school reform. FOR EXTERNAL AUDIENCES p 7

11 Q: How is Linked Learning different from other CTE (Career Technical Education) and career academies or charter schools? A: Linked Learning is unique in its approach that encompasses effective features of CTE and the flexibility of charter schools, paired with rigorous and relevant college-prep academics, to prepare students for college, career, and life. Linked Learning allows students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world situations. Through its integration of college- and career-readiness practices, Linked Learning ensures that every student will be equipped with the necessary experience and training to succeed in school and become a skilled member of the California workforce. Q: Who is an advocate of Linked Learning? A: A broad and diverse community of educators, employers, policymakers, and community-based organizations champion Linked Learning, aiming to expand and improve programs and offer them to more students across the state. The Linked Learning Alliance, a statewide coalition comprised of more than 250 educators, industry professionals, and community leaders, is a hub of information and works to build awareness about Linked Learning, advocate for policies that support high quality implementation, and expand Linked Learning opportunities for students. An important member of the Linked Learning Alliance, ConnectEd: The California Center for College and Career, helps districts build systems of high-quality Linked Learning pathways by developing tools, supporting demonstrations, providing technical assistance and professional development, leading collaboration efforts, and promoting policies that expand Linked Learning overall. The National Academy Foundation, the College & Career Academy Support Network, and the Los Angeles Small Schools Center are other key providers of technical assistance to Linked Learning pathways and districts. Linked Learning also is supported by students, parents, and educators around the state who are passionate about improving education for all high school students and helping them to be successful in school and career. Business Leader-specific Questions Q: What is the incentive for employers and businesses to become involved in Linked Learning? A: By becoming involved with Linked Learning, employers and businesses have the opportunity to produce positive results from their investment of time and other resources. Linked Learning offers employers the chance to work directly with local students and help train the next generation of California s workforce. Productive partnerships can produce real benefits for businesses, including increased recruiting opportunities for future entry-level workers, lower recruiting and training costs, greater morale among current employees, and positive publicity. There are also social benefits that may align with an organization s current commitment to social responsibility. Linked Learning gives an organization the chance to give back to the community, to affect positive change in education, and to make a difference in the lives of local students. Q: As a member of the business community, what are some of the different ways I can support Linked Learning? A: There are a variety of ways to get involved, all which afford students opportunities to become more deeply engaged in their work and better prepared to enter college and career. A good first step for involvement could mean serving on a pathway s advisory committee. The full continuum of engagement includes activities such as speaking to classes about your profession, meeting with students at career fairs, assisting with industry-themed class projects, helping conduct informational and mock interviews, and assisting with college visits and other field trips. Offering internships, externships, and job shadow opportunities are additional ways that employers, business leaders, and industry leaders can help students gain practical job experience and apply their classroom knowledge to real-world situations. You can even volunteer to help teachers develop their curriculum. In addition, we encourage business leaders and other employers to speak up to policymakers via direct contact, social media, op-eds, etc. to help them understand the need for expanded Linked Learning across the state. FOR EXTERNAL AUDIENCES p 8

12 Q: Whom can I contact to discuss more opportunities to get involved in Linked Learning? A: Reaching out to your local school district is a great first step to learning more about the ways you can be a part of Linked Learning locally. You ll be able to learn about the needs of local schools for your support and find out more about the ways you can help. You can also join the Linked Learning Alliance to help advocate for expanded Linked Learning across the state. Q: I d like to support my local Linked Learning school/academy, but I can t offer any job shadows or internships right now. Are there other ways to get involved? A: Absolutely. Members of the business and labor community are a key component to helping students get the real-world experience that will help them succeed in college, career, and life. While job shadows, internships, and externships offer valuable depth, insight, and experience to students, employers, business leaders, and industry leaders are also able to lend their expertise by giving presentations or offering site tours to students enrolled in a Linked Learning pathway. Even offering a small amount of time to discuss how Linked Learning helps students become prepared for the working world would make a significant contribution to their learning experience. FOR EXTERNAL AUDIENCES p 9

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14 LinkedLearning.org Business Leader Fact Sheet Linked Learning Offers students a personally relevant, wholly engaging, rigorous academic and career-based curriculum with real-world learning opportunities. Ensures students graduate from high school well prepared to enter a two- or four-year college or university, an apprenticeship and formal job training. Exposes students in school to previously unimagined college and career opportunities. Four Core Components of Linked Learning Rigorous academics. An academic component that includes college preparatory English, mathematics, science, history, and foreign language courses. Real-world technical skills. A challenging career-based component of three or more courses that help students gain the knowledge and skills that can give them a head start on a successful career. Work-based learning. A series of work-based learning opportunities that begin with mentoring and job shadowing and evolve into intensive internships, school-based enterprises, or virtual apprenticeships. Personalized support. Support services including counseling and supplemental instruction in reading, writing, and mathematics that help students master the academic and technical learning. Proven Success Research shows that Linked Learning students of all demographic profiles have higher persistence and graduation rates than their peers at traditional high schools. Support from the Employer Community Currently, more than 30 business, industry, and trade organizations are members of the Linked Learning Alliance. The Linked Learning pathways align with California s fifteen major industries: Agriculture and Natural Resources; Arts, Media, and Entertainment; Building Trades and Construction; Education, Child Development, and Family Services; Energy and Utilities; Engineering and Design; Fashion and Interior Design; Finance and Business; Health Science and Medical Technology; Hospitality, Tourism, and Recreation; Information Technology; Manufacturing and Product Development; Marketing, Sales, and Service; Public Services; and Transportation. Students engage in job shadowing, apprenticeships, school-based enterprises, or internships before they leave high school and understand how their high school education leads to their next academic or career steps. For Business Leaders

15 Students Better Prepared to Complete High School and Excel in College In 2012, the state s graduation rate was 78.5 percent statewide. The graduation rate for Latino students was 73.2 percent and for African American students 65.7 percent. i In 2010, 95 percent of students who attended the 500 CPAs (California Partnership Academies), which practice a form of Linked Learning, graduated. CPAs also posted higher graduation rates for Latino and African American students compared to the state average with 94 percent and 92 percent rates respectively. ii Barely one-third of all students who graduate high school (36 percent) complete all the A-G courses necessary for admission to a University of California (UC) or California State University (CSU) school. iii Linked Learning prepares students for a postsecondary education. Many Linked Learning schools help more students successfully complete the necessary A-G coursework for admission to a UC or CSU. Many Linked Learning schools ensure students successfully complete the necessary A-G coursework for admission to a UC or CSU. In fact, 57 percent of graduates from California Partnership Academies (CPA), one type of Linked Learning approach, fulfilled the courses required. iv Students Better Prepared to Excel in the Jobs of the Future As of 2010, 59 percent of jobs require a postsecondary credential. By 2018, this figure will increase to 63 percent of all jobs, a trend that is likely to continue to grow. v Linked Learning prepares students to meet the increasing demands of today s job market. Linked Learning arms students with real-world experience and a strong academic foundation to go to a two or four-year college so that they can meet the demands of today s job market and enjoy a meaningful, high-wage career. Employers increasingly value the ability to communicate effectively, collaborate productively, problem-solve, and innovate, a sharp departure from the repetitive, routine jobs that once were the staple of middle-class employment. vi Linked Learning s combination of rigorous academics and real-world learning opportunities provides students with communication, critical thinking and problem solving skills that are needed in any profession. No matter what pathway a student chooses, Linked Learning is designed to arm students with a robust array of skills that will better prepare them for college, career, and life. i California Department of Education. (2013). State Schools Chief Tom Torlakson Announces Continued Improvement in State s High School Graduation Rate. ii Profile of the California Partnership Academies , UC Berkeley (2011) iii Profile of the California Partnership Academies , UC Berkeley. (2011). iv Profile of the California Partnership Academies , UC Berkeley (2011) v Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce. Help Wanted: Projections of Jobs and Education Requirements through P v. vi J. Casner-Lotto and L. Barrington, Are They Really Ready To Work? Employers Perspectives on the Basic Knowledge and Applied Skills of New Entrants to the 21st Century U.S. Workforce (New York: Conference Board, 2006). For Business Leaders

16 Template Introductory /Letter to Business Leaders You now have the knowledge and tools you need to talk about the Linked Learning approach. You also have specific guidance on how to speak to the business community. The remaining materials in this section provide you with templates and examples to help you with your outreach. The first step in your outreach will be to get in contact with the business organization to begin introducing them to Linked Learning. Adapt and customize this template to help you with your outreach. Subject: Your help developing CA s workforce with Linked Learning Hello [CONTACT NAME], I m reaching out to you because I would like to schedule a meeting to discuss how you are in a position to help improve California s workforce and provide more opportunities for our students. As you know, California s businesses and employers need a better educated workforce to meet current and future demands. But not enough students are graduating high school, and those who do often lack the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in college and career. That s where Linked Learning comes in. Linked Learning is an innovative approach to education that integrates rigorous academics with career-based learning and real-world workplace experiences. All Linked Learning students follow an industry-themed pathway, including project-based learning in the classroom and career exposure and practical applications in a real-world setting. Students also get a complete picture of the many career paths and jobs available to them in addition to the skills and knowledge they need to reach and excel in a potential career. Research shows that Linked Learning students are less likely to dropout and more likely to graduate on time than their peers at traditional high schools. What s more, Linked Learning is helping to create students who are prepared to succeed in college, career, and life. That leads to an engaged and productive 21st-century workforce for California. Linked Learning has already been successfully implemented in many schools and districts across the state, helping to prepare students for a full range of post-graduation opportunities. But Linked Learning also needs the help of employers to partner with schools to ensure that both academics and career-focused learning are preparing students to succeed. I really believe Linked Learning makes a difference for students and our state. We need your help to provide students in Linked Learning pathways with exposure to high-quality, work-based learning. I will follow up with you next week to discuss scheduling [a brief meeting OR a quick phone call] to discuss Linked Learning in more detail. Thank you I look forward to talking with you soon. Sincerely, [NAME] FOR EXTERNAL AUDIENCES p 13

17 Phone Outreach to Business Leaders Tips and Script Once you have sent your introductory , follow up with a phone call. This document will help you in your outreach by phone to leaders and members of the business community. Within each initial call, you should make a connection, state who you are, state why you are calling, and wrap up the call with next steps. The tips provide context, and the script provides guidance on what to say during each phase of the call. Phone Outreach Tips I. Making the connection Whenever possible, reference a contact name in your introduction. This includes anyone at the organization who may have helped you by setting up the call or by providing a contact name: Beth Smith in the human resources department gave me your name. Make sure it s a good time to talk. If it is not a good time, ask the contact when you can call back. Try to avoid letting them call you back they rarely do. If this is your only option, wait a week and then try them again. You can also ask if there is someone else in the company or organization with whom you should speak. Be prepared to leave a voic message. Remember to leave your name and number at the beginning of the message and keep the message short: This is [NAME] with [ORGANIZATION] at [PHONE] (Enunciate the number clearly and slowly. Many of us tend to speak too hurriedly on voice recordings.) Beth Smith gave me your name and suggested I speak with you about workforce readiness and an approach that serves [COMPANY OR ORGANIZATION] s interests. I will try to reach you again later in the day [OR OTHER SPECIFIC TIME]. I look forward to speaking with you soon. II. Stating who you are Explain who you are and on whose behalf you are calling to establish credibility. III. Stating why you are calling Make clear quickly that you are not selling anything and get right to the point of the call. Tailor your program description to the person s knowledge as well as your personal role in Linked Learning. Keep your descriptions simple and avoid using terms or acronyms that your contact may not be familiar with. Do your homework on the person or organization you are contacting if possible so that you can highlight specific ways that Linked Learning could benefit them. For example, [ORGANIZATION] s leadership on workforce readiness is impressive. It s one of the reasons we think [ORGANIZATION] would be a great potential partner to our local Linked Learning pathways. Make sure to have the FAQ sheet, fact sheet, and communicator tips on hand during the call in case your contact asks you difficult or challenging questions about Linked Learning. IV. Wrapping up the phone call Don t forget to make the ask. During this first call, your objective may be to find out if your contact is interested in meeting with you in person to engage more fully with Linked Learning. Most people will want you to send additional information that they can review before making a decision. Before you end your call, be sure you have a next step, such as setting a date for your next call, sending program information or setting up a meeting or school visit. If your contact was made through a friend or colleague, keep them in the loop about your progress. FOR EXTERNAL AUDIENCES p 14

18 Call Script I. Making the connection Hi, this is [NAME] with [ORGANIZATION OR SCHOOL]. I am following up from an I sent you about an effective, innovative approach in high schools called Linked Learning. It integrates rigorous academics with engagement in career-based learning and real-world workplace experiences. It s helping to strengthen California s future workforce by ensuring that more students graduate high school with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in college and career. Do you have a few minutes to talk? II. Stating who you are I am a [TITLE] at [YOUR ORGANIZATION OR SCHOOL], and we are working with businesses, policymakers, and schools across California to spread the word about the value to students and to our local economy that comes from implementing the Linked Learning approach within public education in their communities. III. Stating why you are calling Our goal is to raise awareness among business leaders like you about Linked Learning and to increase participation in this highly effective approach for our students. Linked Learning is transforming high school education in California and helping address the skills gaps that you know so well. In fact, research shows that the Linked Learning approach results in greater rates of persistence and higher graduation rates for all students compared to traditional high schools, and many of them are graduating high school with competitive skills in engineering, computer science, health professions, and other industries critical to California. Ultimately, we want more and more businesses to become involved in Linked Learning by providing students with invaluable work experience before they graduate from high school, whether that s job shadowing or an internship. Businesses, in return, help to improve the community by ensuring that its citizens are educated and able to contribute to a thriving community and by ensuring that California will have a better-educated workforce that can meet the current and future workforce demands of businesses. Students in Linked Learning understand how their high school education leads to their next educational or career steps. Employers are critical to making Linked Learning work by providing essential work-based learning opportunities for students. Students interact with professionals in California s top industries in real-world settings and graduate with a clear understanding of what they need to do to be successful in any postsecondary education program or career. Could we set up a meeting with in person to discuss further? IV. Wrapping up the phone call Thanks for taking the time to talk today. I m excited to meet with you to discuss Linked Learning. Is there anyone else at [BUSINESS] you would like me to talk to about Linked Learning? Is there any additional information I can provide? When is a convenient time for you to meet? [NOTE: Try to confirm the date/location while on the phone.] If you have any questions or need further information, please call or . [NOTE: Provide contact information and use your direct line or business cell if you have one.] FOR EXTERNAL AUDIENCES p 15

19 Business Leader Recruitment Meeting Script and Tips Now that you have scheduled a meeting with a business leader contact, the following script and tips will help guide your meeting to foster their engagement at the local level or statewide. The focus of this script is on recruiting a business or organization to support Linked Learning or form a partnership with a pathway. You may also want to supplement your meeting with other items from the Linked Learning toolkit such as the fact sheet. I. Starting your meeting Hi, I m [NAME] with [ORGANIZATION]. I am happy we can connect in person to talk about Linked Learning. Tips o o Always agree to meet at a time and location that is convenient for the business leader. Remember to bring a business card and any other materials that could be helpful in guiding your conversation, including a brochure and/or fact sheet. II. Discussing Linked Learning Explain what Linked Learning is, how it works, and how it is effective. This approach will make clear what it means for our students and our state. What it is o Linked Learning pathways are offering all students a more engaging academic experience combined with career-based learning and real-world workplace experiences. o Research shows that the Linked Learning approach results in greater rates of persistence and higher graduation rates for all students compared to traditional high schools. o Linked Learning is turning secondary education into a personally relevant, engaging experience for any student, exposing them to new college and career opportunities. o Linked Learning is helping to create a productive future workforce for California, ready to succeed in college, career, and life. o Linked Learning pathways are giving students more exposure to California s major industries, giving them a better understanding of the types of career paths and jobs available, and helping them develop the skills and knowledge they will need to succeed. o The Linked Learning approach invites employers to partner with schools to ensure that both the academic and professional learning curricula are preparing students to succeed in a pathway s industry. How it works o All Linked Learning students follow a topic specific pathway, designed as a multi-year, comprehensive program that engages them through project-based learning in the classroom paired with career exposure and practical applications in a real-world setting. All Linked Learning pathways include: A rigorous academic component A technical component Work-based learning experiences like internships Personalized support and counseling How it is effective o Making school relevant: Linked Learning connects what students learn in school to the real world and their career goals. The curriculum comprises strong academics, professional education, and real-world learning experiences, helping students connect what they learn now to what they hope to do in the future. o Graduating college ready: Linked Learning prepares students for a postsecondary education by helping them successfully complete the necessary A-G coursework for admission to a UC or CSU. In fact, 57 percent of graduates from California Partnership Academies (CPA), one type of Linked Learning approach, FOR EXTERNAL AUDIENCES p 16

20 fulfilled the courses required for admission to UC or CSU systems compared to 36 percent of students statewide. 1 o Graduating career ready: Linked Learning s combination of rigorous academics and real-world learning opportunities provides students with communication, critical thinking, and problem solving skills that are needed in any profession. No matter what pathway a student chooses, Linked Learning is designed to arm students with a robust array of skills that will better prepare them for college, career, and life. o Adapting to state budget cuts: By reallocating resources and securing funds through private and philanthropic partnerships, Linked Learning pathways have continued to successfully operate sustainably in this challenging fiscal climate. Explain how businesses play a key role in Linked Learning s success o Linked Learning is helping to create a productive future workforce for California, ready to succeed in college, career, and life. o Employers are critical to making Linked Learning work. Work-based learning opportunities allow students to interact with professionals in real-world settings in order to graduate with a clear understanding of what they need to do to succeed in any postsecondary education program or career. o At [YOUR ORGANIZATION] we have [INTERNSHIP PROGRAM] with [SCHOOL]. This is an opportunity to discuss firsthand your positive experience with Linked Learning students. Explain how Linked Learning benefits the economy o College and career prep: Linked Learning prepares students for a full range of opportunities after high school. It combines academics and professional skills which are both necessary for a complete education and a successful future. o Need for skilled workers: As you know, skilled and productive employees are the backbone of any successful business. Today, 59 percent of jobs require a postsecondary credential. By 2018, this figure will reach 63 percent of all jobs, a trend that is likely to continue to grow. Right now, there aren t enough skilled workers in California to fill open job positions that require education beyond high school. o Demonstrated success: Studies show that the approach can raise academic achievement, increase earning power, and improve college-going rates. At the end of the school year, the statewide graduation rate among seniors was 85 percent. By comparison, 95 percent of seniors who attended the 500 California Partnership Academies (CPAs), which practice a form of Linked Learning, graduated. CPAs also posted higher graduation rates for Latino and African American students compared to the state average with 79 percent and 84.5 percent rates respectively. 2 o Increasing opportunity: Linked Learning creates more opportunity and improves equity among all California students. It helps students who may never have imagined going to college excel in high school, discover new aspirations, and graduate with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. If they ask questions, offer additional supportive points, as appropriate: o Economic success: Linked Learning arms students with real-world experience and a strong academic foundation to earn postsecondary credentials that allow them to meet the demands of today s job market, and enjoy a meaningful career. Linked Learning pathways are aligned with California s major growth industries. o Broad support: A number of organizations champion Linked Learning. The Linked Learning Alliance, a statewide coalition comprised of more than 250 educators, industry professionals, and community leaders, is a hub of information and works to build awareness, advise school districts, and expand the Alliance to include more representation from the community. Alliance partners include ConnectEd, The National Academy Foundation, the Los Angeles Small Schools Center, and College & Career Academy Support Network. o Leveling the playing field: Linked Learning creates more opportunity and improves equity among all California students. It helps students who may never have imagined going to college excel in high school, discover new aspirations, and graduate with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed. 1 Profile of the California Partnership Academies , UC Berkeley (2011) 2 Profile of the California Partnership Academies , UC Berkeley (2011) FOR EXTERNAL AUDIENCES p 17

21 o Non-prescriptive: Linked Learning is flexible, adaptable, and can be tailored to the unique needs of any district, school, or community. o Teaching support and professional development: Many resources and tools are available from the Linked Learning Alliance, ConnectEd, and other organizations that provide teachers with the help they need to make Linked Learning instruction a success. Most teachers in Linked Learning pathways love the approach and think it is worth a little extra effort. Tips o Make Linked Learning personal. If you work in a Linked Learning school or had Linked Learning interns work at your organization, discuss any relevant anecdotes or success stories you or your company, school or organization have witnessed. Student examples best illustrate the positive outcomes of Linked Learning and show how it s effective. o Keep the conversation an open dialogue. While there is a lot of good information to communicate about Linked Learning, it is important the meeting remains a two-way discussion. Pause and ask if the person you re meeting with has any questions or needs further clarification on a topic before moving forward. o Use any materials you brought to the meeting like a brochure and/or fact sheet to support your points through the discussion. Visuals can be helpful for understanding complex topics. Be concise. Again, while there is a lot of good information to communicate about Linked Learning, business leaders are busy. Stick with the key talking points. o Keep your descriptions simple and avoid using terms or acronyms that a business leader may not be familiar with, unless you also explain them. III. Making the ask and wrapping up the meeting I m glad we were able to connect in person today and hope you have all the information you need about Linked Learning. I ve shared some information about Linked Learning, but nothing replaces seeing it yourself. Would you be interested in visiting a school to see Linked Learning in action? I can help set that up. We would love to have your support as a Linked Learning partner. [NOTE: Be specific. Businesses can help invest in the future of their workforce by providing students in Linked Learning pathways with exposure to high-quality work-based learning programs from a variety of industries and sectors. If you are interested in becoming an advocate or even implementing a Linked Learning work-based learning program at [BUSINESS], I am happy to provide you with additional materials and support to do so. ] Thank you so much for your time. Please view me as a resource if you need any additional information and support. If it s okay with you, I would like to follow up in a few weeks on the discussion we had today. Tips o Be direct and concise. o o o o o o Don t forget to make the ask. Be sure to tailor your ask to employers, business leaders, and industry leaders to help explain why or how they are an ideal partner for a particular pathway. Be clear that there are many ways, big and small, that they can partner with a pathway. Before you end your meeting, be sure you have a next step, such as asking to follow up by phone a few weeks after the meeting. If your contact was made through a friend or colleague, keep them in the loop about your progress. Leave materials with important information behind such as links to resource websites, toolkits, fact sheets, pamphlets, and your contact information. If possible, offer the person a tour or visit of a Linked Learning school, so they can get a first-hand sense of the approach and pathways in action. We find that seeing is believing. FOR EXTERNAL AUDIENCES p 18

22 Business Leader (Chamber, Rotary, or Association) Meeting Script and Tips The following script and tips are also meant to be used in a meeting with a business leader. The focus of this script is on recruiting an organization to support Linked Learning and advocate for its expansion at the local level or statewide. Again, you can supplement your meeting with other materials from the Linked Learning toolkit such as the fact sheet. I. Starting your meeting Hi, I m [NAME] with [ORGANIZATION]. I am happy we can connect in person to talk about Linked Learning. Tips o o Always agree to meet at a time and location that is convenient for the business leader. Remember to bring a business card and any other materials that could be helpful in guiding your conversation, including a brochure and/or fact sheet. II. Discussing Linked Learning Explain what Linked Learning is, how it works, and how it is effective. This approach will make clear what it means for our students and our state. What it is o Linked Learning pathways are offering all students a more engaging academic experience combined with career-based learning and real-world workplace experiences. o Research shows that the Linked Learning approach results in greater rates of persistence and higher graduation rates for all students compared to traditional high schools. o Linked Learning is turning secondary education into a personally relevant, engaging experience for any student, exposing them to new college and career opportunities. o Linked Learning is helping to create a productive future workforce for California, ready to succeed in college, career, and life. o The Linked Learning approach is an affordable and sustainable long-term investment in student success, even in the current fiscal environment. Studies have found that upfront investment in Linked Learning leads to benefits for the economy and taxpayers that far exceed the cost. o By creating a workforce that is better equipped to succeed in a postsecondary education program and handle the jobs of the future, Linked Learning benefits the state s businesses, tax base, and economy. How it works o All Linked Learning students follow a topic specific pathway, designed as a multi-year, comprehensive program that engages them through project-based learning in the classroom paired with career exposure and practical applications in a real-world setting. All Linked Learning pathways include: A rigorous academic component A technical component Work-based learning experiences like internships Personalized support and counseling How it is effective o Making school relevant: Linked Learning connects what students learn in school to the real world and their career goals. The curriculum comprises strong academics, career-based education, and real-world learning experiences, helping students connect what they learn now to what they hope to do in the future. o Graduating college ready: Linked Learning prepares students for a postsecondary education by helping them successfully complete the necessary A-G coursework for admission to a UC or CSU. In fact, 57 percent of graduates from California Partnership Academies (CPA), one type of Linked Learning approach, FOR EXTERNAL AUDIENCES p 19

23 fulfilled the courses required for admission to UC or CSU systems compared to 36 percent of students statewide. 1 o Graduating career ready: Linked Learning s combination of rigorous academics and real-world learning opportunities provides students with communication, critical thinking, and problem solving skills that are needed in any profession. No matter what pathway a student chooses, Linked Learning is designed to arm students with a robust array of skills that will better prepare them for college, career, and life. o Adapting to state budget cuts: By reallocating resources and securing funds through private and philanthropic partnerships, Linked Learning pathways have continued to successfully operate sustainably in this challenging fiscal climate. Explain how Linked Learning benefits the economy o College and Career prep: Linked Learning prepares students for a full range of opportunities after high school. It combines academics and professional skills which are both necessary for a complete education and a successful future. o Need for skilled workers: As you know, skilled and productive employees are the backbone of any successful business. Today, 59 percent of jobs require a postsecondary credential. By 2018, this figure will reach 63 percent of all jobs, a trend that is likely to continue to grow. Right now, there aren t enough skilled workers in California to fill open job positions that require education beyond high school. o Demonstrated success: Studies show that the approach can raise academic achievement, increase earning power, and improve college-going rates. At the end of the school year, the statewide graduation rate among seniors was 85 percent. By comparison, 95 percent of seniors who attended the 500 California Partnership Academies (CPAs), which practice a form of Linked Learning, graduated. CPAs also posted higher graduation rates for Latino and African American students compared to the state average with 79 percent and 84.5 percent rates respectively. 2 o Increasing opportunity: Linked Learning creates more opportunity and improves equity among all California students. It helps students who may never have imagined going to college excel in high school, discover new aspirations, and graduate with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. If they ask questions, offer additional supportive points, as appropriate: o Economic success: Linked Learning arms students with real-world experience and a strong academic foundation to earn postsecondary credentials that allow them to meet the demands of today s job market, and enjoy a meaningful career. Linked Learning pathways are aligned with California s major growth industries. o Broad support: A number of organizations champion Linked Learning. The Linked Learning Alliance, a statewide coalition comprised of more than 250 educators, industry professionals, and community leaders, is a hub of information and works to build awareness, advise school districts, and expand the Alliance to include more representation from the community. Alliance partners include ConnectEd, The National Academy Foundation, the Los Angeles Small Schools Center and College & Career Academy Support Network. o Leveling the playing field: Linked Learning creates more opportunity and improves equity among all California students. It helps students who may never have imagined going to college excel in high school, discover new aspirations, and graduate with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed. o Non-prescriptive: Linked Learning is flexible, adaptable, and can be tailored to the unique needs of any district, school, or community. o Teaching support and professional development: Many resources and tools are available from the Linked Learning Alliance, ConnectEd, and other organizations that provide teachers with the help they need to make Linked Learning instruction a success. Most teachers in Linked Learning pathways love the approach and think it is worth a little extra effort. 1 Profile of the California Partnership Academies , UC Berkeley (2011) 2 Profile of the California Partnership Academies , UC Berkeley (2011) FOR EXTERNAL AUDIENCES p 20

24 Tips o Make Linked Learning personal. If you work in a Linked Learning school or had Linked Learning interns work at your organization, discuss any relevant anecdotes or success stories you or your company, school, or organization have witnessed. Student examples best illustrate the positive outcomes of Linked Learning and show how it s effective. o Keep the conversation an open dialogue. While there is a lot of good information to communicate about Linked Learning, it is important the meeting remains a two-way discussion. Pause and ask if the person you re meeting with has any questions or needs further clarification on a topic before moving forward. o Use any materials you brought to the meeting like a brochure and/or fact sheet to support your points through the discussion. Visuals can be helpful for understanding complex topics. Be concise. Again, while there is a lot of good information to communicate about Linked Learning, business leaders are busy. Stick with the key talking points. o Keep your descriptions simple and avoid using terms or acronyms that a business leader may not be familiar with, unless you also explain them. III. Making the ask and wrapping up the meeting I m glad we were able to connect in person today. I ve shared some information about Linked Learning, but nothing replaces seeing it yourself. Would you be interested in visiting a school to see Linked Learning in action? I can help set that up. We would love for you to voice your support publically for Linked Learning. [NOTE: Be specific. The Linked Learning approach invites employers to partner with schools to ensure that both the academic and professional learning curricula are preparing students to succeed in a career within the pathway s field. ] Given your leadership role in [CITY S] business community, we think you would be an ideal advocate for Linked Learning within your extensive network. I am happy to provide you with additional materials and support to do so. Thank you so much for your time. Please consider me a resource if you need any additional information and support. I would like to follow up in a few weeks on the discussion we had today, both to see how your efforts are going and to talk more about how we might work together. Tips o Be direct and concise. o Don t forget to make the ask. o Before you end your meeting, be sure you have a next step, such as asking to follow up by phone a few weeks after the meeting. o If your contact was made through a friend or colleague, keep them in the loop about your progress. o Leave materials with important information behind such as links to resource websites, toolkits, fact sheets, pamphlets, and your contact information. o If possible, offer the person a tour or visit of a Linked Learning school, so they can get a first-hand sense of the approach and pathways in action. We find that seeing is believing. FOR EXTERNAL AUDIENCES p 21

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