According to the Connecticut State Department of Education, "For the school year commencing July 1, 2012, and each school year thereafter, each local and regional board of education shall create a student success plan for each student enrolled in a public school, beginning in grade six. Such student success plan shall include a student’s career and academic choices in grades six to twelve, inclusive."
The Student Success Plan (SSP) is an individualized student driven plan that will be developed to address every student’s needs and interests to help every student stay connected in school and to achieve postsecondary educational and career goals. The SSP will begin in the 6th grade and continue through high school to provide the student support and assistance in setting goals for social, emotional, physical and academic growth, meeting rigorous high school expectations and exploring postsecondary education and career interests. The Student Success Plan and supporting structures, such as student portfolios and academic records, should be electronic and portable following the student from school to school and district to district."
A successful Student Success Plan is built around three core components: Academic Development, Career Development, and Social, Emotional and Physical Development:
I. Academic Development
Student interest and aspiration are the basis for the development of the student’s academic program. A planned academic program will lead to the acquisition of the skills, knowledge and attitudes needed to be an effective learner in school and across the life span. The Student Success Plan is designed to ensure that students complete their secondary education with 21st Century Skills, with an emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) skills necessary to compete in the global economy.
Specific model criteria include: selection of rigorous courses linked to interest skills and career pathways; selection of courses for the attainment of education and / or career goals; progress toward successful completion of portfolio / Capstone project; ongoing support and assessment of of progress with mentor / advisor; and provision of timely intervention.
II. Career Development
The student will investigate their own interests and abilities as they relate to the world of work in the dynamic global economy. The customized plan will include varied and flexible educational opportunities, personal connections, and elective coursework, and targeted supports tied to each student’s education and/or career goals. The Student Success Plan, which guides students through secondary education on to postsecondary education and/or work, will allow students to make better career choices with the academic foundation to achieve their career and personal goals.
Specific model criteria include: interest and ability inventories; career exploration activities and elective courses; and post-secondary education and career pathway development.
III. Social, Emotional and Physical Development
The Student Success Plan supports positive social, emotional and physical development, allowing students to more fully engage in the school environment and take the risks necessary for optimal academic performance. Student success within may be exemplified through establishing and maintaining positive interpersonal relationships, managing feelings and emotions, engaging in behaviors supportive of positive physical health, demonstrating an appreciation for the needs of others, and embracing opportunities for academic, career, and postsecondary success.
Specific model criteria include: effective decision-making skills; empathetic interactions and community service; utilizing supportive resources; healthy and safe life skills/choices; and broadened awareness of self within a global context.
