Joplin, MO: Preparing Students for College and Careers
In an increasingly competitive and global marketplace, comprehensive career preparation is especially important. Schools and colleges in the Joplin, MO, area, are at the forefront of workforce development efforts, offering a variety of programs that equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in local, in-demand careers. From immersive high school training programs to liberal arts offerings, the region’s schools provide a robust menu of opportunities that cater to students’ needs.
Preparing Students for Local Professions
A standout program is the Missouri Southern Center for Advanced Professional Studies (MOSO CAPS), located on the campus of Missouri Southern State University (MSSU). The program uses project-based learning and real-world problem solving to prepare high school juniors and seniors for professions in health sciences, human services and business communication and technology. Students spend two days a week taking courses at MSSU – which also earns them college credit – and three days a week working with an industry partner.
“We have 180 industry partners that we’ve worked with in the Joplin area, says Suzanne Hull, director of MOSO CAPS. “In health sciences, for example, we have students who have shadowed dental hygienists, radiologists, physical therapists, nurses and pharmacists. We even have one student who has decided she wants to be a neurosurgeon because she had the opportunity to scrub in with one. We have students interested in criminal justice who are able to go on police ride-alongs or work in the district attorney’s office.”
Hull says the program also works with Joplin, MO, students to develop soft skills that will give them an advantage regardless of college or career choice.
“We spend the first five weeks of the fall semester in what we call CAPS prep,” she says. “We focus on how to introduce themselves, shake hands and give a 30-second elevator pitch to a total stranger. We teach them how to prepare a resume and set up a LinkedIn profile. They also learn team building, project management and networking skills. We even host mock interview days.”
Finding Career Paths in Joplin, MO
Joplin Schools has embraced the MOSO CAPS program, integrating it into its educational offerings to provide students with a robust start to their careers. Beyond MOSO CAPS, the Joplin, MO, school district offers career training in 14 areas, from health care and technology to business and welding, ensuring that students have the flexibility to pursue their interests and aptitudes.
“Joplin Schools plays a key role in supporting regional workforce development efforts,” says Kaci Dorton, director of Franklin Technology Center at Joplin High School. “Specifically in Joplin High School and Franklin Technology Center classes, we help bridge the gap between education and employment by preparing students for careers that are in demand right here in southwest Missouri. We give students early exposure to hands-on experiences, introducing exploration activities in elementary school.”
The success of Joplin Schools’ approach is evident in their impressive post-graduation statistics. Approximately 90% of Joplin High School graduates enroll in post-secondary institutions or transition directly into the workforce or military. Dorton says the school district works closely with local businesses, colleges and workforce partners to offer internships, apprenticeships, job shadowing, industry certifications, dual credit and even teacher externships for continual professional growth.
“Exposure to real opportunities contributes greatly to our students’ ability and interest in transitioning to post-secondary education, the workforce or military opportunities,” she says. “Our strong partnerships with industry and post-secondary institutions give students multiple chances to explore careers firsthand and see what’s possible in their future.”
Unlocking Career Potential in Joplin, MO
For families seeking a private college and career preparatory educational experience with a focus on liberal arts, Thomas Jefferson Independent Day School (TJIDS) in Joplin, MO, offers a rigorous academic curriculum designed to prepare students for future careers. The school, which serves students in grades pre-K-12, focuses on instilling critical thinking, problem-solving and communication skills, which are key competencies essential for success in both college and careers.
“Thomas Jefferson is a unique place because we encourage students to just be themselves, and we give them the space where they can feel comfortable to do that,” says Margot Patterson, a lower school science teacher.
An impressive 100% of the school’s graduates are admitted to college. TJIDS boasts 20 Advanced Placement courses for high school students in subjects that include Latin, literature and U.S. history. Advanced Placement courses allow students to earn college credit through testing. In fact, the school was named to the 2024 Advanced Placement School Honor Roll, earning the platinum distinction for having all its eligible students take at least one exam.
“This honor is a testament to the strong work ethic of our students and teachers, their commitment to excellence, and the strength of our entire pre-K-12 academic program,” says Laura McDonald, outgoing head of school.
This article is sponsored by Choose Joplin, which is actively supported by the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce and the City of Joplin.