The MORE collaborative is working on several initiatives designed to ensure that students are well-prepared for life after high school:
Certificate of Employability Workshop
The Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce’s Education Committee organizes and implements the Certificate of Employability six-session workshop. This initiative is an example of bridging the gap between students and employers. Students who participate in the workshop can gain information about local businesses in the area and the various career pathways available in the Sauk Valley Region. Students also learn about the importance of essential skills in the workplace.
During the 2022-23 school year, the Chamber worked with four high schools, impacting 112 students in the 10th-12th grade. Eighteen employers participated in the program, sharing the various pathways in their industries and the essential skills critical in the workplace.
SVCC Impact Program
The Sauk Valley Community College’s Impact Program allows high school students to earn their tuition through community service. During the pilot year of the Impact Program, local community high school students completed 13,860 hours of community service.
Expanding Access
The Agriculture Program is excited to launch its first dual-credit offerings at area high schools with six participating districts in the first year. The team is happy to note the growth of local Future Farmers of America chapters throughout area high schools.
Health Professions
Sauk Valley Community College is participating in the PATH (Pipeline for the Advancement of Healthcare Professionals) grant and recently graduated approximately 300 healthcare professionals. The goal for 2024 is to have 400 graduates and the department is now pursuing the creation of a sonography program to meet workforce needs.
