Twelve years is a relative amount of time. If you ask a 13-year-old, it’s a lifetime. If compare it to how long Stonehenge has been around, then it’s just a blip in time. For me, twelve years is right in that sweet spot. Enough time to observe and learn, but still early enough to embrace change and imagination.

Career & College Clubs (CCC), NCCEP’s college and career readiness program and curriculum for grades 7 through 12, was introduced to NCCEP and the GEAR UP community in 2016. But it was originally created back in 2008, making the program 12 years old.

Although I’ve been with NCCEP for the past four years, I have been with CCC since its inception. When I first was introduced to the idea of a student-led program and curriculum, I knew it could be something special. And it is. For those who may not know, CCC’s curriculum centers around peer-to-peer learning, a model that requires students to guide their peers through activities by following provided step-by-step directions. The adult (or coach) who is there to implement the program, is really there to guide, support, and encourage the students during their time together.

I will never forget one of the first times I observed CCC at a school. I walked into the classroom as students were filing in, and I sat towards the back to make sure I was out of the way. Before I knew it, there were two students standing up in front, getting the “class” started. I was waiting for a teacher to go to the front or say something or help get the students focused, but all of that was done by two lead students. The entire group was respectful, focused, and engaged. It was so awesome! The teacher  sat in the back with me and let the students soar.

The student-led model has remained a cornerstone of the program, but inspired by GEAR UP, there have been changes and enhancements as the program has grown and evolved.

We are constantly reviewing the curriculum and program and searching for ways to improve. Our latest focus is on improving the delivery of the curriculum, allowing for easier use of the content. We are also creating quarterly check-ins for all those who utilize CCC to network, share their experiences, and learn from each other.

CCC is 12 years old now, but one day I hope to sing “Happy Birthday” when it turns 25. That’s how much I believe in this program. Although, I’m going to hold off on doing the math with my own age.

- Kelly Pappas

To learn more about NCCEP’s Career & College Clubs, visit us here or email ccc@edpartnerships.org.