15 August 2009
Dear Parents:
The purpose of this letter is to give you information about the Career
Exploration Expo class your child is enrolled in. This class introduces
students to the world of career opportunities that will become available to
them in years ahead. Lessons utilized in the class will give students the
chance to experience a practical, hands on application of the skills they
are acquiring in their other classes.
Units of study will include: exploring how education, work and family fit in
to our career choices; values and decision making; investigating a variety
of jobs and careers; making and balancing budgets; and writing resumes.
The Real Game California will be the centerpiece curriculum tool that will be
used in the class. The Real Game curriculum is used in 13 countries around
the world and is designed for classroom use, meant to be fun, while at the
same time is fully aligned with the California academic learning standards.
Participating in The Real Game allows your child to assume and explore
aspects of adult life in a safe, supportive environment. It is designed to
emphasize the value of work and the importance of ongoing education,
teamwork, and positive attitudes.
Three years ago Lee helped pilot the brand new Real Game California, the
latest edition in The Real Game Series. During our pilot, Mr. Jack
O’Connell, California State Superintendent of Public Instruction, visited
us. He heartily endorsed The Real Game California as a wonderful resource to
help teach students about the important connection between education and
future careers. We are among the first schools in the state to begin using
this exciting new curriculum.
The involvement of community business members and parents will be a key
element of the class and one that will anchor it to real life. Any support
or time you can give to the activities of the class will help reinforce the
issues and lessons that the class introduces and will help prepare your
child for the future. We will be including many guest speakers who will be
coming into class to share their career experiences. If you are interested
in sharing information about your career, contact me at any time.
I encourage you to visit my web page on the Lee website to view the class
syllabus and get updated information about the Career Class as well as
information about the Counseling Department. I am looking forward to meeting
you at our student led parent conferences on October 7, and 8. Feel free to
contact me at any time with questions or suggestions.
Michael Gangitano
Counselor
Career Exploration Teacher
530-406-7355
michael.gangitano@wjusd.org
