In honor of National Literacy Month, and with the school year underway, this month we shine a spotlight on CJR’s Cable Academic and Vocational Education Center (CAVEC).
With a mission to provide students with a supportive environment that nurtures their ability to maximize their individual potential and strengthen their social and academic experiences, now and throughout their lifetimes, CAVEC programs are designed to empower students to develop their skills and become lifelong learners.
Coalescing around the Portrait of a Graduate approach, CAVEC prepares students for a smooth transition between high school graduation and what comes next. APortrait of a Graduate represents a school district’s vision for the 21st century skills, character traits, and/or social-emotional competencies that students need to succeed in college, career, and life.
Pillars of the Portrait of a Graduate program include Work Ethic; Responsible Citizen; Effective Communication; Independent Learner; and Financial Agency.
With curriculum developed by staff for a multi-disciplinary approach to learning, along with vocational programs to develop a strong work ethic, and health and wellness programs for emotional well-being, students and their parents are encouraged by – and proud of – the successes experienced at CJR’s CAVEC school programs.
When asked “What they like most about CJR’s school program?” students offered:
“I love everything because it feels like family.” – Jaxton C.
“I like the environment and the different vocational classes.” – Anton G.F.
“I like how the teachers respect me.” – Azareon Y.
When asked “Why they chose CJR?” teachers offered:
“To be a youth mentor and give back to my community.” Mr. Jimenez
“To try to make a difference; no matter the size.” Mr. Boccio
“CJR is one of Connecticut’s outstanding schools for restorative practices.” Ms. Dunbar
“Helping youth help themselves.” Mr. Sharack
Becoming a lifelong learner is about cultivating curiosity and adopting habits that foster continuous personal and intellectual growth. Here are key strategies to guide students looking to embrace a lifelong learning mindset and get the school year started with their best foot forward:
- Embrace Curiosity:
- Ask questions: Cultivate a sense of wonder and curiosity about the world. Don’t shy away from exploring new topics, even those outside your field.
- Add new concepts to your repertoire of skills.
- Keep an Open mind:
- Listen to others ideas, seeing how you might be able to learn from each other.
- Be willing to challenge your beliefs and assumptions by exploring perspectives that are unfamiliar or uncomfortable.
- Put the work in, consistently:
- It will pay off. Hard work prepares students for life after high school and what’s needed to succeed in the job force.
- Adopt a Growth Mindset:
- Embrace challenges: View failures or setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than as barriers.
- Stay persistent: Lifelong learning requires perseverance. Progress may be slow, but consistency will pay off over time.
By building these habits and remaining curious, students will not only continuously improve themselves but also find satisfaction in the process of learning throughout life. Students and staff at CAVEC are looking forward to a great 2024-25 school year.
To learn more about CJR’s CAVEC program, visit us here.