Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Career Center and the Learning Center?
Students attending the Northview Next Career Center participate in teacher-taught project based classes and are graded on standards rather than traditional grades. Students participate in Future Focused Fridays (connecting students to job shadows, internships, co-ops and parttime jobs). These opportunities span across a variety of industries, including manufacturing, construction, mechanics, art, technology and real estate. In addition, Career Center students take career preparation classes with a focus on interview preparation, resume building and budget management, all while earning credit toward their diploma. Upon completion, students earn a Certificate of Mastery from Jobs for Michigan Graduates on their mastering of the over 80 career based competencies in the Career Class curriculum. Lastly, students at the Career Center are enrolled in the SACA (Smart Automation Certification Alliance) Manufacturing Class where they will have the opportunity earn a level 1.0 industry recognized credential.
The objective of Northview Next Learning Center is to help all students ages 15-20 acquire a NVPS diploma, regardless of their circumstances. To that end, Northview Next Learning Center offers extended hours of operation, including summer and evening hours, so students can design a schedule that accommodates work requirements, health issues or other barriers to participating in a traditional high school schedule. Students attending the Learning Center take all of their classes online with the daily option of attending our building in person. Students attending Northview Next Learning Center benefit from “wrap-around” services that include:
- On-site teacher
- Online instructor
- District mentor
- Job services
- Social and emotional support services
- Free breakfast and lunch
How do I enroll my child?
Parents interested in learning more about Northview Next should fill out the interest form.
Once submitted, a member of the Northview Next team will be in contact to discuss next steps.
My child would greatly benefit from this program, but we don’t live in Northview’s district. Can we still apply?
Yes. Northview Next is the first program in all of Michigan to extend resources to students ages 15-20 (many programs end upon a student’s graduation from high school) and which is available to students across Kent County.
My child is already a part of Northview Public Schools but not a part of Northview Next. How do we seize this opportunity?
As soon as your child is 15 years old, they can be considered to participate in Northview Next. Connect with your student’s counselor or contact a Northview Next staff member.
Is there a cap to the program?
Yes, unfortunately there is a cap in the number of students we can serve at Northview Next Career Center. We are looking to expand the program in the coming years. Students who are unable to attend right away are put on a waiting list.
The Northview Next Learning Center does not have a cap.
What is Future Focused Fridays?
Future Focused Fridays, launched in 2018, gives all Career Center students (not just seniors) an opportunity to work with local businesses every Friday to gain invaluable professional experience. Giving students a chance to work with businesses before graduating and going to college better prepares them for multiple success pathways. Northview Next’s Career Center provides internship opportunities, on-the-job training, part-time job prospects and career shadows through Future Focused Fridays.
What areas/industries are available through Northview Next?
We believe there are multiple pathways to success and are committed to providing our students with opportunities across STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) industries. With a focus on skilled-trade, we partner with local businesses and organizations to provide options that match the interests of our students.
Who are your current business partners?
We’re always looking for additional partners to emphasize multiple pathways to success for students and are grateful for the current organizations who have dedicated their time to fostering the next generation of workers. Current partnerships include Amway Manufacturing, Grand Rapids Community College, West Michigan Construction Institute, GRCC M-TEC Center, Keller Williams Realty, Fox Motors, Brigade Fire Protection, and River City Mechanical.
If I’m a business owner or leader, how can I partner with Northview Next?
We’re always looking for new opportunities and valuable learning experiences for our students. If you’re interested in learning more about becoming a business partner, please reach out to our Director, Tony Quinn, at (616) 361-7396 or tquinn@nvps.net.
How much of a time commitment is it to be a business partner to Northview Next?
We are willing to work with you on whatever opportunities you are able to provide our students. If providing a full internship opportunity is not available, but you are interested in other partnership opportunities or sponsorships – such as hosting facility tours or participating in speaking engagements – we encourage you to connect with our Director, Tony Quinn, at (616) 361-7396 or tquinn@nvps.net.
How are students selected for internship and job opportunities?
It is important to Northview Public Schools that we provide our students with opportunities that match their skill set and interest. Once we find an organization that matches the preferred industry, we work with the organization to discuss appropriate opportunities for both parties.