The University of Nebraska—Lincoln College of Agricultural Science and Natural Resources (CASNR) and Lincoln Public Schools (LPS) announced plans to expand the Early College and Career STEM program next school year.
 
Currently, the focus program explores career fields related to Food, Water, Energy, and Societal Systems (FEWSS) and is offered only at Northeast High School. After an extensive review, a decision was made to expand the opportunities across the school district in every high school.
 
Associate Superintendent for Teaching and Learning Sarah Salem acknowledged that FEWSS careers are in high demand and represent the jobs of the future.
 
“We are so fortunate to have a partner in our community like UNL who is leading the way nationally in many of these areas of study,” said Salem.
 
“In Nebraska, where one in four jobs is related to agriculture and natural resources, a prepared and talented workforce is essential,” said Tiffany Heng-Moss, dean of CASNR at UNL. “I am thrilled with the expansion of the LPS-CASNR Early College and Career STEM Program.”
 
A long-term vision includes dual-credit class opportunities, field trips tied into existing LPS classes, more hands-on experiences for students and professional learning opportunities for staff.
 
“We are excited for an opportunity where all LPS students, regardless of their school, can benefit from exposure to these vital career pathways,” added Salem.