ASPIRE

Today’s Students = Tomorrow’s Workforce

ASPIRE was created in partnership with Pottawattamie County school districts to serve the unique needs of both urban and rural students. It allows superintendents to use flexible funding to grow existing workforce training programs or launch new ones. Each program ensures students receive support in their career exploration and assistance in transitioning to additional training. This can include apprenticeships, internships, two-year colleges, four-year colleges, or the workforce.

“If I could do anything in the future, I would own my own shop and offer any kid an opportunity like I had. If they want to be a diesel mechanic, I would buy them their toolbox and send them to college.” – Dalton Asmus, Avenue Scholars Recipient (pictured above)

Program Details

• Increased access to Iowa Western’s College and Career Transition Counselors, Avenue Scholars of Southwest Iowa’s support systems, and Iowa Jobs for America’s Graduates (IJAG);
• Additional staff and certification for existing staff to expand district work-based learning opportunities;
• New curriculum and more slots to help more students earn a diploma plus college credit or credentials.
• Financial support for post-high school students who can’t pay for the tools, uniforms or tests they need to complete their program
  

Student Testimonials