Many districts are still working to bring their Academic and Career Planning (ACP) process into full compliance, while others are ready to take their plans to the next level. This hands-on workshop is designed to meet both needs.

Educators and district leaders will learn how to align ACP requirements with district goals, connect Education for Employment (E4E) and workforce initiatives, and develop a cohesive strategy that strengthens college and career readiness for all students. In keeping with Wisconsin’s Education for Employment legislation, participants will explore how to ensure their ACP systems not only meet state expectations but also serve as a powerful framework for meaningful, student-centered career development.

Each team will leave with a sample completed ACP Strategic Plan Template that can be customized to bring their district into compliance and serve as a working framework for continuous improvement.

Why Attend

• Reach and Maintain Compliance
  Understand current ACP requirements and receive tools and examples that help your district meet state expectations with clarity and confidence.
• Connect the Dots
  See how ACP, E4E, and regional workforce initiatives can support one another rather than operate in silos, creating a more unified approach to college and career readiness.
• Strengthen Your Strategy
  Learn to integrate ACP goals into your district’s strategic plan, turning compliance into meaningful student outcomes.
• Collaborate and Innovate
  Work with peers from other districts to share insights, problem-solve challenges, and learn from successful ACP models across Wisconsin.
• Take Action with Confidence
  Leave with a completed sample ACP template that you can customize for your district—ensuring compliance and positioning your ACP as a driver of student success.
• Empower Every Student
  Design an ACP system that supports equity, engagement, and readiness for every learner in your district.

Your Hosts:

Cyndi Pavelski is a passionate educator and leader with extensive experience in preparing students for success beyond high school. With a rich background as a high school Career and Technical Education (CTE) teacher and principal, Cynthia has dedicated her career to helping students connect their learning to meaningful futures.

Throughout her years in education, she has led innovative academic and career planning initiatives, helping schools strategically align programming that empowers every student to identify their strengths, explore opportunities, and set goals for life after graduation.

In her current role at CESA 6, Cynthia serves as a vital liaison between schools and employers, building partnerships that bring career-based learning to life. As a key member of the Inspire Wisconsin team, she helps students activate their Individualized Academic and Career Plans and gain valuable experiences that prepare them for college, career, and community success.

Cynthia’s leadership and collaborative approach continue to bridge the gap between education and the workforce, ensuring that every student has the tools, connections, and confidence to thrive in their future endeavors.

Leah Bruess brings a wealth of real-world and educational experience to her role as a leader in Career and Technical Education (CTE). Having worked in industry and served for many years as a CTE educator, Leah understands firsthand the importance of connecting classroom learning to the skills and experiences students need for success in the workforce.

At CESA 6, Leah serves as a licensed Local Vocational Education Coordinator (LVEC), where she provides expert guidance and data-driven support to school districts. Her work helps districts plan purposefully, ensuring that state and federal CTE funding is strategically aligned to maximize results and drive continuous improvement for students.

Known for her deep understanding of CTE data and her collaborative approach, Leah empowers schools to strengthen career pathways, enhance program effectiveness, and create meaningful opportunities that prepare all students for college, career, and community success.