In the heart of rural Illinois, a transformative educational initiative is making waves. Leaders Innovating for Tomorrow (LIFT) is reshaping the future for students in the Mattoon Community Unit School District #2 and beyond. By harnessing the power of Cisco technology, LIFT is offering students hands-on learning experiences that prepare them for exciting, non-traditional career paths.
A New Model for Career and Technical Education
LIFT offers a variety of career and technical education (CTE) programs – from IT to HVAC to culinary arts. The offerings are as diverse as the students’ interests. With 101 different courses across seven pathways, each focused on a specific career field, LIFT caters to high school juniors and seniors in up to 28 districts.
Located in a purpose-built facility, LIFT equips students with high-demand skills that prepare them for the future. The program boasts a remarkable statistic: 94% of its high school graduates enroll in postsecondary education, advanced training, military service, or employment within the year following graduation.
Overcoming Challenges with Innovative Solutions
Faced with the challenge of standardizing IT infrastructure and supporting an innovative curriculum, the LIFT team turned to Cisco technologies. Implementing solutions such as Catalyst Switches, Webex, Meraki Smart Cameras, and Secure Firewall, they created a seamless and secure learning environment. This comprehensive setup facilitates collaboration and connectivity, ensuring that both students and faculty can focus on what matters most – education.
In addition to technology, LIFT students are making a tangible impact in their communities. In just the last year, 254 service projects were completed, and students participated in 201 active leadership opportunities, demonstrating their dedication to improving the school and the region.
Transforming the Educational Landscape
“We don’t have a traditional classroom environment,” explains Aaron Ramsey, IT Program Facilitator. “It’s more like a workshop model, with pockets of students working on different things.” This shift from conventional methods to a self-directed, hands-on learning model allows students to concentrate on practical skills, preparing them for both higher education and the workforce.
Through this innovative approach, students earned 452 certifications, credentials, and dual credits last year, positioning them ahead of the curve in today’s competitive job market.
Teaching IT Through a Skills-to-Jobs Program
Ramsey has reimagined IT instruction by emphasizing real-world applications over traditional homework and tests. By setting up a state-of-the-art server lab with Cisco hardware, students gain valuable experience and industry certifications through Cisco Networking Academy courses.
Of the students who have taken a Cisco Networking Academy course at LIFT in the past three years, three have earned CCNA certifications, seven have earned JavaScript certifications through Networking Academy’s partner courses, and four have completed the IT Essentials course, earning its credential. One student also successfully passed the Security+ exam, becoming the first in the program to take and achieve the certification.
Ramsey proudly notes, “100% of our students also have clear plans for their next steps after high school.”
Bridging the Gap: Connecting Students Inside and Outside Classrooms
Webex technology has become a cornerstone of LIFT’s collaborative environment, enabling students to connect with potential employers, attend virtual conferences, and execute community projects. Ramsey recalls a student initiative to provide rural communities with free Wi-Fi, noting that “it was a passion project, and Webex equipment allowed her to get on conference calls and facilitate the process.”
LIFT also takes an annual trip to Cisco’s Chicago offices, where students spend an entire day engaging with Cisco employees. From career panels to interactive activities and open forums, this experience provides a valuable glimpse into urban professional environments and inspires students to broaden their horizons.
Charting a Pathway to a Brighter Future
Through innovative use of Cisco technology, LIFT is transforming education for rural students, providing them with the skills and experiences necessary to thrive in today’s digital workforce. As Ramsey puts it, “Combining Cisco Network Academy training with the best Cisco equipment helps our students stay on top of current trends and technologies.”
In rural Illinois, LIFT is not just a program – it’s a pathway to a brighter future.
