LM Jan 2023_hi

Message From the Executive Director LIFT Facility InMattoon Is Inspiration ForWhat Education Systems Can Be

Dr. Brent Clark

In the United States, 53 percent of all jobs require more than a high school diploma but less than a four-year degree. Plumbers, HVAC specialists, manufacturers, and medical technicians are all examples of this kind of work. However, only 43 percent of workers are trained to this skill level. As an example, the skills gap may leave an estimated 2.4 million manufacturing jobs unfilled between 2018 and 2028. School districts can be part of the solution. Many districts in Illinois already are. Let’s take advantage of this opportunity to provide training for jobs that potentially pay more than $60,000 per year, helping break cycles of poverty in our communities. I hope you read about the LIFT Innovation Center in Mattoon. The program is an inspiration for what our education systems can potentially look like. Awesome work by Tim and his staff at Mattoon CUSD #2. To close, I hope each of you enjoyed the Winter Break and got to spend time with family and recharge your batteries. There is demanding, but also rewarding, work ahead. I’m confident each of you are up to the challenge.

IASA is always proud to highlight innovative and dynamic work happening in schools across our state. In this month’s issue, we showcase an exceptional program in Mattoon CUSD #2. The LIFT Innovation Center opened its doors to students in August. The state-of-the-art facility has advanced robotics equipment, high-powered manufacturing machines, a culinary institute, a communications studio, a CISCO lab and other 21st century luxuries not typically afforded to students in a rural area. Mattoon CUSD #2 was able to open its facility when Consolidated Communications opted to sell its headquarters to the district. But as Tim Condron, the district’s superintendent, notes schools anywhere can offer similar opportunities for students without a 50,000-square foot facility. I personally am a strong advocate for school districts maximizing vocational opportunities, providing opportunities to earn credentials and certifications and preparing students to enter the workforce and forge a successful career. The data shows our country is experiencing a significant skills gap and there is a growing need to prepare students for high-wage, high-skill, and in-demand career fields.

3 LM January 2023