Empowering high school students to earn industry-recognzied certifications.
St. Vrain Valley School District is a state leader in career and technical education, embedding industry-recognized certifications, concurrent enrollment, and work-based learning into the high school curriculum. Our district’s pathways directly support and accelerate Colorado’s “Big Three” managed by the Colorado Department of Education.
The goal of the “Big Three” is to ensure high school graduates leave school with at least one of the following career-preparation milestones:
- An Industry-Recognized Credential: A high-value certification or license in a high-demand field, aligned with current workforce needs.
- College Credits: Earned through concurrent enrollment or dual-credit pathways, significantly reducing postsecondary tuition costs.
- A Work-Based Learning Experience: Internships, apprenticeships, or hands-on career exposure that build real-world skills and professional networks.
Maximizing the Value of Industry Certifications
By empowering students to earn industry-recognized certifications before graduation, SVVSD equips them with practical, marketable skills that employers actively seek. These certifications give students a direct competitive edge in the job market while serving as a stepping stone toward higher education:
- 94% of employers value industry-recognized credentials¹
- 80% of employers use credentials as a primary hiring factor¹
- 59% of students earning credentials pursue further education within two years of high school graduation²
How Students Earn Certifications
Students can earn certifications directly through classroom coursework or through guided independent study with a district educator. Many certifications found on the List of Qualified Credentials (LoQC) reported on the Colorado Talent Pipeline Report are supported by SVVSD for full-time students who chose to pursue the certification exam.
Examples of the industry certification pathways offered at the Innovation Center include:
- CompTIA Security+ Certification
- Linux Essentials Certification
- Python Certified Entry-Level Programmer
Unmanned Aircraft Systems: FAA Part 107 Drone Pilot Certification
Digital Media & Production: Adobe Certified Professional (Premiere Pro)
Avid Certified Specialist for Pro Tools
Microsoft Office Specialist
- River Watch Water Quality Certification
- Biotechnician Assistant Certification
- PMI Project Management Ready Certification
- Certified Associate in Project Management
Unreal Engine 3D Fundamentals Certification
