2025 ISBE Career Connections Conference

Description: This three-hour pre-conference is targeted for new CTE teachers or more seasoned CTE educators and administrators wanting to learn more about how to support and mentor new CTE teachers. During this pre-conference attendees will receive best practices and training related specifically to being a new CTE teacher reaching for peak performance and professional growth. A breakout session for the new/novice CTE teachers will focus on critical issues for new teachers, including preparations for the first two weeks of school that will set you up for success. A breakout session for the experienced educator and administrators will focus on mentoring and induction strategies to reduce attrition of early career teachers. Attendees will develop a network of similar CTE professionals that will be supported through two in-person training opportunities (2025 Connections Conference and 2026 IACTE Conference), along with monthly online professional learning sessions to support you throughout the school year. Cost: $25.00

Rural areas around Illinois struggle to grow and sustain strong CTE programs. However, rural schools and communities live in the intersection of key sectors that are critical to the future success of Illinois and the world: energy and the environment. Rural communities are at the frontlines of clean energy production, and are also disproportionately impacted by the changing climate. In this panel discussion, The Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools & The Rural IL CTE Project will host Trane, Inc., rural education leaders, and rural CTE educators to discuss how rural schools can utilize energy and the climate to build innovative and robust CTE opportunities for all students.

This presentation provides an in-depth overview of the Illinois Postsecondary and Career Expectations (PaCE) Framework that the Illinois Student Assistance Commission was tasked with developing as a result of the Postsecondary Workforce Readiness (PWR) Act. Topics covered include: PWR legislation, an overview of the IL PaCE framework, the PaCE implementation process, as well as ISAC resources and support options.

This session will focus on actionable strategies and best practices for preparing future educators to transition to college and the teacher education field successfully. The strategies are directly connected to the Post-secondary and Workforce Readiness Act’s Essential Employability Competencies and focus on communication, problem-solving, decision-making, planning and organization, and initiative. In this interactive session, participants will engage with pre-service educators and program staff to explore specific interventions and initiatives implemented within the Redbird Educator Scholars Program. Attendees will gain insights into approaches to enhance academic and social preparedness, ensuring students possess the requisite skills to navigate the university and teacher education community. Join us to discover how you can build a strong foundation for your future educators and help effectively address the multifaceted challenges faced by pre-service educators, fostering their success and resilience in higher education and the teaching profession.

In order to truly serve all students, CTE programs must be inclusive, accessible, and equitable. This session will explore strategies for creating adaptable CTE programs that meet the diverse needs of every learner, including those with varying abilities, backgrounds, and learning styles.Participants will learn how to implement inclusive practices, such as Universal Design for Learning (UDL), differentiated instruction, and culturally relevant pedagogy. We will discuss how to engage nontraditional learners, support students with disabilities, and foster diversity in CTE offerings. Through practical tools and success stories, attendees will gain insights into making CTE programs more inclusive, helping students achieve success and prepare for high-demand careers.