communications
Power Skills
Superintendent’s Opening Communication
Subject: Introducing the K12 Regional Skills Lab – A Transformative Learning Opportunity for Our Students
Dear Families,
We are proud to share that [insert District Name] has been selected as one of only seven across three Central Coast counties to launch the K12 Regional Skills Lab —a groundbreaking program funded by the California Jobs First initiative and supported by leading industry partners across our region.
This new hands-on learning initiative is designed to connect students with real-world skills and high-opportunity careers right here in our local economy. Through monthly, engaging lessons, students in every grade will explore careers in seven priority industries that are driving job growth and innovation on the Central Coast—from AgTech and Aerospace to Healthcare, Advanced Manufacturing and Cleantech.
You may be wondering: Why introduce careers in elementary school? Research shows that early exposure to career pathways has a powerful, lasting impact on student success. According to the National Bureau of Economic Research, students who engage in career exploration during elementary and middle school are significantly more likely to pursue higher education and secure higher-paying jobs. It also helps them build confidence, see the relevance of their learning, and begin to dream bigger about their future.
Each month, your child will take part in a new interactive lesson that highlights a different industry sector. These lessons include storytelling from local professionals, hands-on challenges, and real-world problem-solving—all designed to spark curiosity and help students see themselves in careers they may have never imagined.
This is more than just a new program—it's a regional movement. Together, we are aligning education and economic development to build a homegrown talent pipeline—one that lifts students out of poverty and fuels a stronger, more inclusive economy for the Central Coast.
Stay tuned for more information about our first monthly theme and how your student will participate. We look forward to working together to inspire and empower the next generation of leaders, builders, healers, and innovators.
Warmly,
[Superintendent Name]
Superintendent, [District Name]
School Site Principal’s Opening Communication
Subject: Launching the K12 Regional Skills Lab at [School Name] – Starting with “Power Skills”
Dear [School Name] Families,
I’m excited to share some wonderful news—[School Name] has been selected to participate in the launching of the K12 Regional Skills Lab, a new hands-on learning program that connects what students are learning in the classroom to the careers and opportunities shaping the future of our Central Coast region.
Funded by the state’s California Jobs First initiative and supported by local industry leaders, this program places us at the heart of a powerful regional effort to build a homegrown talent pipeline—one that prepares all students to thrive in the high-wage, high-growth industries here on the Central Coast.
Each month, every student—from kindergarten through sixth grade—will participate in an engaging, grade-level lesson that spotlights one of our region’s key industries, such as clean energy, healthcare, AgTech, aerospace, construction, or advanced manufacturing. These lessons feature real professionals from our area and give students a chance to work hands-on with meaningful challenges that build confidence, spark curiosity, and connect learning to real-world careers.
We’re kicking things off this month with a theme that applies to every job, in every industry: Power Skills. These are the essential life and career skills that employers say they value most—like communication, teamwork, creativity, perseverance, and problem-solving. In this first lesson, your child will explore how these “human” skills are just as important as technical know-how—and how they can start developing them today through school, teamwork, and personal growth.
It’s never too early for students to imagine their future—and this is one way we’re helping every child see that future as exciting, achievable, and rooted right here in our local community.
Thank you for your continued partnership as we launch this exciting new chapter at [School Name]. We can’t wait to see where this journey takes our students!
With pride and anticipation,
[Principal Name]
Principal, [School Name]
K12 Regional Skills Lab: The Tools for Success!
This Month’s Theme: Building Design and Construction
This month, in the K12 Regional Skills Lab, your kindergartener participated in an exciting hands-on lesson titled "Building Big Dreams: Tools of Tomorrow’s Builders." They explored the world of building design and construction, discovering how tools help professionals like builders, architects, and engineers create the structures all around us—from houses to bridges to skyscrapers!
What is the Building Design and Construction Industry?
The Building Design and Construction industry is essential to our communities, creating the homes, schools, hospitals, and roads we rely on every day. Skilled workers in this field bring ideas to life—whether they are designing blueprints, operating heavy machinery, or ensuring buildings are safe and strong.
With growing demand for housing, commercial spaces, and infrastructure, construction jobs are booming in the Central Coast region. Over the next 10 years, the industry is expected to grow by nearly 7%, adding thousands of jobs. This field offers many career pathways, from hands-on trade jobs to high-tech design roles.
Careers & Earning Potential
If your child enjoys building, creating, or problem-solving, they might love a career in this field! Here are a few jobs they could explore:
Construction Workers – Build homes, schools, and offices.
Average salary: $45,000 - $70,000
Training needed: High school diploma + apprenticeship
Carpenters – Specialize in woodwork for buildings and furniture.
Average salary: $50,000 - $80,000
Training needed: Trade school or apprenticeship
Architects – Design buildings, from blueprints to final structures.
Average salary: $80,000 - $120,000
Training needed: Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Architecture
Civil Engineers – Plan and oversee major construction projects like roads and bridges.
Average salary: $90,000 - $130,000
Training needed: Bachelor's degree in Engineering
Extend the Learning at Home!
Encourage your child’s curiosity about construction with a fun building challenge at home! Gather materials like cardboard, LEGOs, or recycled items and ask them to design and build their dream house or a new playground for their school. Talk about the tools they would need in real life to make their idea come to life.
We love partnering with families to inspire the next generation of builders and innovators. Stay tuned for next month’s career exploration adventure!
K12 Regional Skills Lab: Building Big Dreams Together!
This Month’s Theme: Building Design & Construction
This month in the K12 Regional Skills Lab, your 1st grader became a junior builder through a hands-on lesson called "Let’s Build It: Craft Stick House Framing!" Students explored how buildings are made from the ground up by learning about framing—the wooden skeleton that gives shape and strength to houses, schools, and other buildings.
Using craft sticks, teamwork, and creativity, students worked in small groups to design and construct their own mini house frames. As they connected walls, roofs, and corners, they learned that shapes like rectangles and triangles are key to keeping buildings strong. It was a fun and meaningful way to introduce the tools, teamwork, and thinking skills that real-world builders use every day!
What Is the Building Design & Construction Industry?
This industry brings entire communities to life—constructing homes, offices, hospitals, roads, and more. Every project starts with an idea and is brought to life by a team that may include architects, engineers, and builders. It’s a field that combines design, math, creativity, and problem-solving.
Here on the Central Coast of California, the construction industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors, with nearly 7% projected job growth over the next decade. That means thousands of future opportunities for students interested in building, designing, or planning.
Careers in Building & Construction
If your child loves building, drawing, or creating with their hands, they might be interested in one of these exciting careers:
Architect – Designs buildings so they are both beautiful and functional.
Average Salary: $80,000–$120,000
Training: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture
Construction Worker – Uses tools and machinery to build homes, roads, and schools.
Average Salary: $45,000–$70,000
Training: High school diploma + apprenticeship
Structural Engineer – Makes sure buildings and bridges are strong and safe.
Average Salary: $90,000–$130,000
Training: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering
Construction Manager – Leads the entire building process from start to finish.
Average Salary: $90,000–$140,000
Training: Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management
Extend the Learning at Home!
Keep the building fun going at home! Try this simple family activity:
Build a Mini Home Together:
Grab some craft sticks, LEGOs, blocks, or recyclables.
Have one family member be the Architect and draw the plan.
Another can be the Builder and bring it to life.
A third can be the Inspector to check if it's strong and sturdy!
This activity helps children understand how collaboration and planning make big ideas possible.
Thank you for supporting your child’s career exploration journey. We’re proud to help our students build big dreams—one lesson at a time. Stay tuned for next month’s exciting hands-on career adventure!
K12 Regional Skills Lab: Engineering the Future!
This Month’s Theme: Building Design and Construction
This month, in the K12 Regional Skills Lab, your 2nd grader participated in an exciting lesson titled "Building the Future: Exploring Careers in Structural and Civil Engineering!" They stepped into the role of engineers, learning how these professionals design and build the structures we rely on every day—from bridges and skyscrapers to roads and tunnels. Through a fun hands-on challenge, students explored how engineers use creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork to ensure buildings and infrastructure are safe and strong.
What is Structural and Civil Engineering?
Structural and civil engineers are the problem-solvers behind the buildings, roads, and bridges we use every day. They design, test, and build structures to make sure they can withstand weather, weight, and time. Whether designing earthquake-resistant buildings or planning safe highways, engineers play a critical role in shaping our communities.
In the Central Coast of California, civil and structural engineers are in high demand, especially as cities grow and infrastructure needs modern upgrades. Over the next 10 years, job growth in this field is projected to increase by nearly 8%, offering many exciting career opportunities.
Careers & Earning Potential
If your child enjoys designing, building, and problem-solving, they may love a future in engineering! Here are a few career paths they could explore:
Structural Engineer – Designs and tests buildings, bridges, and towers to make sure they are safe.
Average salary: $90,000 - $130,000
Training needed: Bachelor's degree in Engineering
Civil Engineer – Plans and oversees construction projects like roads, tunnels, and airports.
Average salary: $85,000 - $120,000
Training needed: Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering
Extend the Learning at Home!
Encourage your child’s engineering creativity at home with a building challenge! Using spaghetti, marshmallows, or LEGO bricks, challenge them to build the tallest structure they can without it falling over. Ask them to think like an engineer: What makes a strong base? How can they balance the weight? Talk about how real engineers design buildings to stand up to wind, earthquakes, and heavy loads.
We love partnering with families to spark curiosity and inspire the next generation of builders, designers, and engineers. Stay tuned for next month’s career exploration adventure!
K12 Regional Skills Lab: Wired for Success!
This Month’s Theme: Building Design and Construction
This month, in the K12 Regional Skills Lab, your 3rd grader participated in an exciting lesson titled "Wired for Success: Exploring Careers in Construction and Electrician Trades!" They explored the critical role electricians play in the construction industry and got hands-on experience by building their own simple electrical circuit—just like real electricians do when wiring homes, schools, and offices!
What is the Electrician Trade?
Electricians are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems in homes, businesses, and public buildings. They ensure that lights turn on, outlets work, and technology functions safely and efficiently. Without electricians, modern life wouldn’t be possible!
In the Central Coast of California, electricians are in high demand, especially with the growth of renewable energy and new construction projects. Over the next 10 years, job openings in this field are expected to grow by 9%, creating great opportunities for those with the right skills.
Careers & Earning Potential
If your child enjoys working with their hands, solving problems, or building things, they might be interested in a career in the skilled trades! Here are a few exciting paths:
Electrician – Installs and repairs electrical systems in homes, businesses, and large buildings.
Average salary: $55,000 - $90,000
Training needed: High school diploma + apprenticeship + electrician certification
Electrical Engineer – Designs and tests electrical systems for buildings, power grids, and technology.
Average salary: $80,000 - $130,000
Training needed: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering
HVAC Technician – Installs and maintains heating, cooling, and ventilation systems, which also involve electrical wiring.
Average salary: $50,000 - $85,000
Training needed: Trade school + certification
Solar Technician – Specializes in installing and maintaining solar power systems, a growing field in California.
Average salary: $45,000 - $75,000
Training needed: Apprenticeship or trade certification
Extend the Learning at Home!
Encourage your child to explore electricity at home with a simple circuit-building challenge! Using household items like a battery, a light bulb, and aluminum foil (as a wire substitute), see if they can create a working circuit like they did in class. Talk about why circuits are important and how electricians ensure homes and buildings have safe, reliable power.
We’re excited to partner with families in introducing students to the trades and career pathways that keep our communities running. Stay tuned for next month’s exciting career exploration adventure!
K12 Regional Skills Lab: Feedback Makes You Fly! – Becoming Coachable
This Month’s Theme: Power Skills – Becoming Career Ready
This month, in the K12 Regional Skills Lab, your 4th grader became a Coachable Champion in the lesson “Feedback Makes You Fly!” Students practiced being both an Artist and a Coach through fun drawing challenges. They learned how to give clear instructions, listen carefully, and use feedback to improve their work. Along the way, they discovered that being coachable isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being open, adaptable, and willing to learn from mistakes.
Learn more and watch the industry spotlight video here: https://k12skillslab.org/4/powerskills
Why is Coachability a Power Skill?
Employers across all industries highly value employees who are open to learning and applying feedback. Being coachable means being willing to improve, handling constructive criticism with a positive attitude, and actively working on self-improvement. However, many employers struggle to find workers with this skill!
Did you know?
94% of employers say that coachability is a key factor in hiring (LinkedIn Workplace Study).
Employees who seek feedback and apply it are 50% more likely to get promoted than those who don’t (Harvard Business Review).
Professional athletes, CEOs, and top performers all credit their success to being open to feedback and constantly improving!
By practicing coachability early, students develop resilience, confidence, and a growth mindset—giving them a major advantage in future careers!
How Employers Value Coachability
Every profession requires the ability to take feedback, make adjustments, and improve. Here’s how coachability is used across different careers:
Athletes & Performers: Must listen to coaches and directors to refine their skills and routines.
Engineers & Scientists: Constantly test, receive feedback, and adjust designs to create better technology.
Doctors & Surgeons: Use peer feedback and new research to improve patient care.
Chefs & Business Owners: Adapt recipes, customer feedback, and strategies to succeed.
Video Game Designers & Artists: Revise their work based on testers’ feedback to make better products.
Extend the Learning at Home!
Help your child practice coachability in everyday life with these fun activities:
"Fix It Challenge!" Give your child a simple task (drawing, building, writing) and offer one piece of feedback for improvement. Have them apply the change and see the difference!
"Feedback in Action!" When watching sports, a cooking show, or a talent competition, discuss how the players or contestants respond to coaching and improve their performance.
"Try Again!" If your child struggles with something (tying shoes, math problems, a new sport), encourage them to accept feedback and keep practicing!
By learning how to accept and apply feedback, students are developing a growth mindset that will help them thrive in school, careers, and beyond. Stay tuned for next month’s career exploration lesson!
K12 Regional Skills Lab: Diverse Teams
This Month’s Theme: Power Skills – Becoming Career Ready
This month, in the K12 Regional Skills Lab, your 5th grader became a Diverse Team member in the lesson "Stranded! Survive and Thrive Together." Through engaging, hands-on activities, students explored the power of diverse teams, learning how different skills, perspectives, and strengths contribute to better problem-solving, stronger collaboration, and real-world success.
Learn more and watch the industry spotlight video here: https://k12skillslab.org/5/powerskills
Why is Teamwork in Diverse Teams a Power Skill?
In today’s workplace, teams are more diverse than ever, bringing together people of different backgrounds, talents, and experiences to solve problems and create innovative solutions. Employers highly value individuals who work well in diverse teams, yet this skill is one of the most challenging to find!
Did you know?
75% of employers say teamwork is essential, but only 18% of employees are rated highly skilled in collaboration (National Soft Skills Survey).
Companies with diverse teams are 35% more likely to outperform their competitors, as they generate better ideas and solutions (Harvard Business Review).
92% of job recruiters say strong teamwork and communication skills are just as important as technical skills (LinkedIn Workplace Report).
By practicing teamwork early, students build essential skills that will give them a competitive edge in school, future careers, and life!
How Employers Value Teamwork in Diverse Teams
No matter the industry, teamwork is a must-have skill. Here’s how different fields rely on strong, diverse teams every day:
Technology & Engineering: Teams with different perspectives collaborate to design new software, robotics, and inventions.
Healthcare & Science: Doctors, nurses, and researchers work together to save lives, develop treatments, and improve medical care.
Business & Marketing: Teams with different skills create products, plan campaigns, and connect with customers worldwide.
Construction & Architecture: Engineers, designers, and builders collaborate to create safe and innovative structures.
Entertainment & Sports: Athletes, musicians, and performers succeed by working as a team, learning from different styles and techniques.
Extend the Learning at Home!
Encourage your child to practice teamwork and collaboration with these fun at-home activities:
"Family Teamwork Challenge!" Work together to build a puzzle, cook a meal, or plan a small project—assign different roles and see how teamwork leads to success!
"Game Night with a Twist!" Play a cooperative board game where players must work together to win, reinforcing problem-solving and collaboration.
"Strengths in Our Family!" Have a family discussion about each person’s strengths—who is good at organizing? Who is creative? Talk about how different strengths help teams succeed!
By learning to collaborate, communicate, and value different perspectives, students are building a strong foundation for future success in any career. Stay tuned for next month’s career exploration lesson!
K12 Regional Skills Lab: The Grit Lab – Building Perseverance for Success!
This Month’s Theme: Power Skills – Becoming Career Ready
This month, in the K12 Regional Skills Lab, your 6th grader became a Resilience Champion in the lesson "The Grit Lab: Building Perseverance for Success!" Through interactive challenges and hands-on activities, students explored the concept of grit—the ability to push through difficulties, learn from setbacks, and work toward long-term goals. They practiced problem-solving, adapting to failure, and staying determined—critical skills that employers highly value.
Learn more and watch the industry spotlight video here: https://k12skillslab.org/6/powerskills
Why is Perseverance & Grit a Power Skill?
In today’s fast-changing job market, employers look for workers who don’t give up when things get tough. Grit and perseverance separate those who succeed from those who quit too soon. Yet, studies show that these skills are becoming harder to find in the workforce!
Did you know?
92% of executives say that resilience and perseverance are critical for workplace success, but only 35% of employees demonstrate strong problem-solving and persistence (Harvard Business Review).
Employees who show grit are 60% more likely to be promoted and succeed in leadership roles (Forbes Career Study).
Entrepreneurs and innovators with high perseverance are more likely to turn failures into breakthroughs, leading to business success and innovation (Stanford University Research).
By practicing grit early, students are developing a skill that will give them a competitive edge in school, future careers, and life!
How Employers Value Perseverance & Grit
The ability to overcome challenges, learn from failure, and keep improving is essential across all industries. Here’s how different fields rely on perseverance:
Technology & Engineering: Innovators test, fail, and refine ideas before breakthroughs happen.
Medicine & Healthcare: Doctors and researchers push through years of training to solve complex health challenges.
Business & Entrepreneurship: Leaders and business owners face rejection and setbacks before they succeed.
Arts & Entertainment: Musicians, writers, and athletes practice relentlessly to improve their skills.
Trades & Construction: Workers must problem-solve on the job daily, fixing unexpected issues and adjusting as needed.
Extend the Learning at Home!
Encourage your child to develop perseverance and grit with these fun at-home activities:
"The Grit Journal!" Have your child write or draw about a time they worked hard and didn’t give up. Encourage them to add future goals and track their progress!
"The Family Challenge!" Set a fun family goal (learning a new skill, finishing a puzzle, or a fitness challenge) and discuss how sticking with it builds perseverance.
"Failure to Success!" Watch a short documentary or video on famous inventors, athletes, or entrepreneurs who failed before succeeding (e.g., Thomas Edison, Michael Jordan, J.K. Rowling).
By practicing perseverance, students are preparing for real-world challenges and learning how to push through setbacks to achieve success. Stay tuned for next month’s career exploration lesson!