Sierra K-16 Collaboratives
The Sierra K-16 Collaborative is a robust partnership of regional leaders, educators, and employers working together to enhance student outcomes and prepare the next generation of skilled workers and leaders. As outlined in our Grant Agreement, the collaborative brings together diverse stakeholders to align regional goals and implement effective plans for educational success.
Formation of the Collaborative
To meet state guidelines for this initiative, the Sierra K-16 Collaborative includes essential components from the educational, workforce, and community sectors:
- At least one K-12 school district: Sonora High School District
- At least one UC campus: UC Merced
- At least one CSU campus: CSU Stanislaus
- At least one community college district: Columbia College
Key Commitments of the Collaborative
- Steering Committee with Local Employer Representation
The Eastern Sierra K-16 Steering Council is comprised of representatives from K-12 schools, post-secondary institutions, workforce organizations, and local community organizations. At least 25% of the steering committee members are local employers, ensuring that regional workforce needs are closely aligned with educational and training pathways.
- Commitment to the California Cradle-to-Career Data System
The collaborative is committed to participating in the California Cradle-to-Career Data System, which enables the collection and analysis of data across the educational continuum, from early childhood to career outcomes, ensuring data-driven decision-making for continuous improvement.
- Commitment to Recovery with Equity (RWE) Recommendations
The Sierra K-16 Collaborative is dedicated to implementing key recommendations from the Recovery with Equity (RWE) report to ensure equitable access to educational opportunities:
- Cultivate inclusive, engaging, and equity-oriented learning environments
- Retain students through inclusive support services
- Provide high-tech, high-touch advising
- Support college preparation and early credit opportunities
- Improve college affordability
- Commitment to Developing Occupational Pathways in High-Demand Sectors
The Sierra K-16 Collaborative is focused on creating clear and accessible occupational pathways in key sectors to ensure students are well-prepared for successful careers. Our pathways currently focus on the following high-demand fields:
- Healthcare (Nursing)
- Education (Teaching)
- Computing/Engineering