John,

In communities across America, students are missing out on opportunities for good, in-demand jobs, and the chance to earn a family-sustaining wage right out of high school.

High-growth industries like IT, advanced manufacturing, and financial services are eager to fill roles that require more than a high school diploma, but not a bachelor's degree. In the healthcare field alone, there are nearly two million job openings, and that number is expected to double by the beginning of the next decade.

But in too many cases, our education system isn't providing the training and skills that students need.

Today, Bloomberg Philanthropies announced a significant investment to help address this challenge: a first-of-its-kind, $250 million initiative to create healthcare-focused high schools that will provide students with specialized skills, and connect them with job opportunities in the field.

The new initiative builds on Bloomberg Philanthropies' existing support for career and technical education in fields where skilled workers can find good jobs without a four-year college degree. "For too long, our education system has failed to prepare students for jobs in high-growth industries," said Mike in a video announcing the new healthcare focused program. "Our goal is for this model to be replicated in any region and in other industries, too."

Through the creation of new high schools in 10 communities including the urban locations Boston, MA; Charlotte, NC; Dallas, TX; Durham, NC; Houston, TX; Nashville, TN; New York, NY; and Philadelphia, PA; and the rural areas Demopolis, AL and Northeast, TN (six locations), the initiative will pair public education systems and hospitals to serve nearly 6,000 students.

The program will offer students academic programming, specialized healthcare classes, work-based learning at the partner health system, and the opportunity to earn industry-valued credentials and certifications.

All of the health system partners have committed to providing job opportunities for graduating students, allowing them to enter healthcare jobs immediately, or choose to advance their healthcare career through post-secondary education.

The initiative serves dual goals of meeting America's need for more healthcare workers and strengthening our middle class. "By giving students a head-start on careers that offer them opportunities for growth, they'll have a chance to pursue their dreams," said Mike. "And as students reap the benefits, so will our country."

Learn more about this new, first-of-its-kind effort:

https://www.bloomberg.org/education/supporting-career-and-technical-education/#healthcare

Thanks,

Bloomberg Philanthropies