A Career-Connected Learning Spotlight: Laz Lopez on Purposeful Pathways

Career-connected learning is gaining momentum in K–12 because it helps students connect academic learning to real experiences that equip them for what comes next. When students have opportunities to learn alongside mentors, explore real workplace environments, and take on authentic challenges, they build durable skills, confidence, and clarity about future possibilities, not just awareness of careers, but readiness for life beyond graduation.

That’s why we’re excited to share a new article by Dr. Lazaro “Laz” Lopez, Executive Director of the District 214 Education Foundation and career pathways in Township High School District 214 (Arlington Heights, Illinois). Dr. Lopez has long been a champion of learning that is relevant, community-connected, and designed around student opportunity, and his January 2026 article in AASA School Administrator offers a grounded, practical perspective on what purposeful pathways can look like in practice.

One part of the article that stood out is a student apprenticeship example from District 214’s health care pathway. Zander, a high school senior, describes how the experience shaped his future decisions:

“This apprenticeship has impacted my future decisions greatly,” Zander says. “I’ve gotten insight from people I’m shadowing about different colleges, learned how broad biomedical engineering is, and discovered jobs I didn’t even know existed. Now I know what I’m getting into when I pick this career.”

He also highlights how real work environments strengthen communication and collaboration:

“If someone needs help, there’s always someone there,” he says. “I’ve learned how effective communication keeps the team moving.”

Importantly, Dr. Lopez emphasizes that career-connected learning isn’t limited to technical training or a single pathway. He also includes student entrepreneurship as one powerful way for students to build durable skills through applied learning — practicing creative problem-solving, learning through iteration, and communicating value.

In the article, Dr. Lopez shares an example of students developing Shimmer Shield — a spray that protects jewelry from rust by providing a clear, waterproof coating. The student team became 2026 INCubatoredu National Pitch winners, earning funding to help take their product to the next level. Reflecting on the experience, one team member shared, “I am most proud of the ability to work through all of the hurdles,” adding, “I learned you can do things no matter what.” It’s a powerful reminder of how applied learning builds both skill and confidence that can fuel a student-driven future.

➡️ Read Laz Lopez’s new article in AASA School Administrator: Where Academic Knowledge and Applied Learning Work Together

➡️ And for an earlier look at District 214’s applied learning approach through entrepreneurship: How Township High School District 214 is embedding entrepreneurship (District Administration)

As Dr. Lopez wrote in 2023, “Teaching students to be entrepreneurs has played a central role in helping them discover their futures in Township High School District 214.”