
Blond woman smiling and writing something in a notebook while sitting in front of a laptop. (Photo courtesy of Getty Images/Unsplash).
Wisconsin students engage in hands-on learning, from running cafés to practicing CPR, ensuring they gain vital skills for future careers and community impact.
Wisconsin’s high schools are transforming into dynamic learning environments where traditional academics merge seamlessly with hands-on career preparation. From student-operated cafés to hydroponics labs, these innovative educational spaces are redefining what it means to prepare for life after graduation.

Young children being taught CPR by an instructor. (Photo courtesy of Hope for Children/Raw Pixel).
Modern career preparation in Wisconsin schools
Today’s career and technical education (CTE) programs in Wisconsin high schools offer students a diverse range of real-world experiences. Students can be found engaging in various practical activities, including:
- Managing and operating student-run cafés
- Maintaining hydroponic systems for growing fresh produce
- Working with modern automotive equipment
- Tending to school chicken coops
- Learning vital healthcare skills like CPR
These programs represent a significant shift from traditional classroom-only instruction to a more comprehensive educational approach that combines academic learning with practical skills development. The integration of these hands-on experiences helps students build valuable competencies while exploring potential career paths.
Impact on students and communities
Career and technical education programs serve as vital bridges between classroom learning and real-world application. These initiatives not only prepare students for future careers but also contribute to the broader community by developing skilled workers who can meet local industry needs.
This story was generated in part by AI and edited by The UpNorthNews staff.
This article first appeared on Good Info News Wire and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.
READ MORE: What’s behind the dispute over test scores in Wisconsin schools?

9 WI businesses staffed by people living with disabilities
Learn about how you can support these Wisconsin businesses staffed by people living with disabilities. Running a successful business isn’t just...

No ‘Front Row’? Bob Uecker’s Famous Beer Commercials Almost Didn’t Happen
Bob Uecker’s now-iconic “I Must Be in the Front Row” Miller Lite commercial almost never happened! Here’s the story ⤵️ It was 1984. Miller wanted...

Why Dwyane Wade started one of America’s best summer reading programs in Wisconsin
Marquette University has one of the country’s BEST summer reading programs — and it’s all thanks to alum Dwyane Wade, who famously missed his entire...

From Cobb to Coach of the Year: Wisconsin’s Greg Gard is the ultimate underdog
Wisconsin’s Greg Gard has one of the BEST underdog stories in college sports: 🚜 He grew up on a hog farm in the tiny town of Cobb, Wisconsin...