Questions
We’re Asking
The first step in finding the best solutions is asking the right questions.
Together with our partners and funders, we make sure we’re in a position
to answer the questions that matter most to policymakers and practitioners.
Featured Question:
Do Career Academies improve labor market outcomes for students?
Robert Ivry says… "Career Academies are one of the few youth-focused interventions that have been found to improve the labor market prospects of young men. MDRC’s study demonstrates that it’s possible to improve labor market preparation and successful school-to-work transitions without compromising academic goals and preparation for college. Today, MDRC is developing and piloting a new program and curriculum for academies to help students understand the connections between what they learn in school and their future, make informed decisions about college and career, and acquire the skills to succeed in both."
WORKING TOWARD A SOLUTION
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Report
Career Academies: Long-Term Impacts on Work, Education, and Transitions to Adulthood
Eight-year findings on Career Academies — a popular high school reform that combines academics with career development opportunities — show that the programs produced sustained employment and earnings gains, particularly among young men. Career Academy participants were also more likely to be living independently with children and a spouse or a partner.
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Report
Making It Happen
How Career Academies Can Build College and Career Exploration Programs
MDRC and Bloom Associates developed and piloted a program to help Career Academies, a popular high school reform, build college and career exploration programs for their students. This report presents lessons learned from its implementation in 18 academies in California, Florida, and Georgia.
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Video
Exploring College and Career Options
Learn about the ECCO (Exploring College and Career Options) curriculum, developed by MDRC and Bloom Associates, which includes lessons and activities that help students prepare for college and career and exposes them to real-world experiences on college campuses and in the workplace.