Evaluation of the California Linked Learning District Initiative Third-year report

Abstract

Linked Learning integrates rigorous academics with real-world experiences. This approach aims to transform education into a personally relevant, wholly engaging experience — and open students to career and college opportunities they never imagined. This approach builds on more than four decades of experience gained by California schools that combine academic and technical content to raise student achievement. It seeks to improve high school graduation rates and increase successful transitions to a full range of postsecondary education opportunities, particularly for low-income and disadvantaged youth. In 2009, The Jame Irvine Foundation launched the California Linked Learning District Initiative to support implementation of the initiative in nine California school districts serving more than 150,000 youth. This report presents preliminary findings on student outcomes and the status of implementation of the initiative in its third year. While not conclusive, findings in year three of the California Linked Learning District Initiative show participating students preparing for college, career and life. And participating school districts are making great strides as they implement this approach across pathways of study.