While I have no doubt that individual knowledge, strengths, and characteristics are essential for success, my recent work with Generation Schools Network convinced me that success cannot be boiled down to one’s individual abilities. Having a network of family, friends, peers, community leaders, and even virtual connections on social media creates a wealth of resources for any individual. This intangible resource is known as “social capital” and is vital as a college and career readiness skill. A web of social connections can be the difference that leads to achieving professional certification, college graduation, or acquiring a stable, meaningful job offer.
Did the district I was educated in excel at growing the social capital of its students? In some ways, I believe it did. One of my favorite days as a high school student was “Grad Return Day.” Recent graduates were invited back to talk about their post-secondary pathways – college, apprenticeships, the armed forces, etc. It was a great way for students to learn more about the possibilities and to hear from several people who were practically our peers.
As a teacher, I worked to integrate opportunities for students to learn about various careers and the skills and paths they would need to be successful. At a project-based learning middle school, our students hosted a career fair. They contacted individuals from a wide variety of careers and invited them to come to the school to share what they do. It was awesome to see students’ excitement during the event and to hear their positive reflections afterward.
I have now left the classroom, but I have not left my passion for student success and doing all I can to facilitate the growth and development of key skills like social capital. Now, as a research associate with Marzano Research, I collaborate with colleagues to develop resources schools and teachers can use to foster student growth.
In 2023, Marzano Research partnered with Generation Schools Network to develop a framework for measuring numerous college and career readiness skills, referred to as North Star Skills. One such skill is social capital. Colorado school districts in rural areas involved in this project will receive detailed descriptions, key components, and competencies for each of the North Star Skills. Additionally, districts will receive rubrics outlining learning outcomes and sample assessment opportunities for each skill at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. Regardless of the path students take upon leaving your school, these North Star Skills will be imperative to their success.
Interested in learning more about North Star Skills implementation? Contact Kirk Banghart, Vice President at Generation Schools Network, at kbanghart@generationschools.org
Interested in how Marzano Research can help your school, district, or education organization with post-secondary readiness? Contact Caitlin Scott, one of the directors at Marzano Research, at Caitlin.scott@marzanoresearch.com.
