At Las Lomas Elementary, Project Kids has empowered second graders to engage in career-connected learning since 2019. Created by teachers Annette Goodman and Theresa Huston, the program helps students identify their strengths and interests while applying them to real-world projects.
Now part of the Career Connected Schools (CCS) network, Las Lomas is expanding its career-focused education with support from Educators Cooperative. Students use the RIASEC framework to describe their interests and apply for roles aligned with their strengths, gaining leadership experience and learning to work collaboratively.
This year, Project Kids is supporting the fight against childhood cancer through a partnership with Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation. Students have taken on roles in marketing, finance, sales, and outreach, organizing and promoting lemonade stands, collecting donations, and spreading awareness. This hands-on experience is teaching valuable lessons in business, teamwork, and service.
The impact is already visible. A once-shy student now confidently promotes the lemonade stand as an announcer. Another student has developed financial literacy by helping track donations. One aspiring graphic designer created promotional posters and digital flyers to support the cause.
By combining career exploration with meaningful service, Project Kids is showing students that their interests and efforts can lead to real change. Even at a young age, they are discovering the power they have to make a lasting impact.