Quakertown Elementary School is pioneering a new approach to career education by integrating the RIASEC model, which stands for Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional, into everyday classroom activities, writes Maddie Hanna for The Philadelphia Inquirer.  

This initiative aims to help students identify their strengths and interests and connect them to potential career paths from a young age. 

The RIASEC framework, introduced by consultant Ed Hidalgo, has been a game-changer. Unlike traditional career education methods, Quakertown’s approach weaves career exploration into regular lessons starting in kindergarten.  

This ongoing conversation encourages students to voice their interests and understand how their skills align with various career options. 

Superintendent Matthew Friedman, who championed this initiative, highlights its transformative impact on students and teachers alike.  

The pilot program’s success, funded with approximately $25,000 for consulting, has shown “pretty amazing” results, according to Friedman. 

High school student Cru McCartney discovered a passion for engineering through the program, while third-grade teacher Melissa Riedi noted stronger classroom communities and heightened student engagement.  

Read more about Quakertown Elementary School’s career initiative in The Philadelphia Inquirer.  

Quakertown PA