3DE™ CEO Breakfast Highlights Transformative Approach to High School Education

Bridging Education and Industry: How 3DE™ is Transforming High School Learning in Eastern Iowa

Author: Cathy Essick
Work Readiness
Published: Friday, 22 Nov 2024

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Image caption: Educators from Alburnett and College Community School District answered questions about 3DE

3DE™ CEO Breakfast Highlights Transformative Approach to High School Education

On Wednesday, November 20^th, more than 50 attendees gathered at Junior Achievement’s Foundation Hall to learn about the transformative learning model, 3 Dimensions of Education™ (3DE™). The event featured presentations by Junior Achievement USA® President, Jack Harris, 3DE™ President, Callie Majors, and local educators from College Community and Alburnette Community School Districts—Eastern Iowa's first 3DE™ schools—. The educators shared their experiences since launching the program in August and answered audience questions.

It was exciting to have seven school districts, elected leaders, JA staff, alongside community and business leaders to learn about how 3DE™ is transforming the educational experience for students and educators. To hear the passion from the educators at College Community and Alburnett share their lived experience, how it’s impacting students, and why it’s important for the business community to engage was profound. To top it off, having the JA USA President, Jack Harris, and 3DE™ National Leader, Callie Majors, there to provide context and vision, I feel like this gathering is a catalyst for our community to take this momentum and move forward to inspire students to lead a courageous life. - Nate Klein, EdD | Vice President of Education

3DE™ by Junior Achievement is an innovative educational learning model that brings together schools, local businesses, and 3DE™ staff to create a unique learning experience for high school students. The learning model combines these key partners to provide real-world, project-based learning that connects academic subjects with career skills, helping students better prepare for the workforce. The 2024-2025 local Case Partners include Green State Credit Union, Mt. Mercy University, Cedar Rapids/Iowa City Building Trades Council AFL/CIO, Eastern Iowa Airport, and Van Meter.

Here's how each component comes together:

Schools:
3DE™ partners with schools to integrate real-world business challenges into the curriculum. Students work on projects that involve problem-solving and teamwork, giving them exposure to the kinds of tasks they might face in a professional setting. Schools benefit from a curriculum that is more engaging and relevant, allowing students to apply what they learn in the classroom to actual business problems.
Local Businesses:
Local businesses play a critical role in 3DE™ by providing real-world problems for students to solve. Business leaders and professionals mentor students, offering guidance, feedback, and a closer look at what their jobs entail. Through these partnerships, students gain valuable insight into different industries and career paths, as well as practical skills that will help them succeed in the workforce. Businesses also have the opportunity to invest in the future workforce by helping develop a pool of skilled and well-prepared young talent.
3DE™ Staff:
3DE™ staff, which includes trained educators and program coordinators, facilitate the entire process. They work closely with schools and businesses to ensure the program is effectively implemented. The 3DE™ staff help bridge the gap between the classroom and the business world, ensuring that students receive the necessary guidance and support to complete projects successfully. They also ensure that the curriculum aligns with both academic standards and the skills needed by employers.

The benefits of 3DE™ by Junior Achievement are impactful for all involved. For students, the program provides hands-on experience that helps them develop essential skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, and communication—abilities that are crucial for success in the modern workforce. For schools, 3DE™ enhances traditional education by integrating real-world experiences, making learning more engaging and meaningful for students. Local businesses also benefit by having the opportunity to shape the skills and mindset of future employees, while fostering stronger connections with the community and helping to build a more skilled and prepared workforce. By combining these three elements—schools, businesses, and 3DE™ staff—this program creates a comprehensive, experiential learning environment that prepares students for success in both college and career.

To learn more about 3DE™ and how it’s transforming education, ontact Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa for more information.