Early College and Career Academy
The Early College and Career Academy (ECCA) is a joint effort of Education for Employment System #330 and Parkland College. ECCA is a program for high school juniors and seniors to earn credits that count toward a high school diploma and college, all while gaining skills in six different Parkland College degree programs: Manufacturing, Automotive Technology, Computer Networking, Certified Nursing Assistant, Emergency Medical Services, and Criminal Justice.
Professional Development
Workshops for teachers, counselors, and administrators, designed to connect educators with local business and industry.
8th Grade Career Conference
2,000+ eighth graders from across the area attend this annual event at the I Hotel and Conference Center. Students gain valuable insight about careers available in central Illinois. Professionals from many different areas speak to the students about what it takes to be successful in the professional world and what they can start doing now to be prepared.
Trade-Up
A partnership with Parkland College and our Local Trade Unions to expose 8th graders to careers in the trades. Students participate in numerous demonstrations and hands-on interactive stations related to the building trades, agriculture, and industrial technology. These stations are led by representatives from the building trades and Parkland College's Career and Technical Education department. The primary Trade-Up event takes place at Parkland College, while Trade-Up North takes place at PBL School District. Combined, these two events serve approximately 400 eighth graders.
Xello/Career Cruising
Online career development system for our middle schools and high schools. Students begin with an interest profiler that serves as the baseline for education plans, employment opportunities, post-secondary exploration, etc.
Summer Construction Program
High school juniors and seniors learn construction related skills through classroom presentation and structured lab time. Students gain hands-on experience, visit trade union halls, the University of Illinois Facilities and Services division, and learn how to apply for a Union Apprenticeship. During this program, students will earn high school credit and an educational stipend.
Future Educators’ Conference
The Future Educators’ Conference takes place every other year for high school students from EFE 330 high schools who are interested in a career in education. A keynote speaker is followed by sessions organized by educators from EFE 330 school districts. This conference is a partnership between EFE 330, Champaign/Ford ROE 9, and local school districts, while also involving higher education institutions. Past colleges and university participants have included Parkland College, University of Illinois, Eastern Illinois University, and Illinois State University.