District 157-C Adopts State Framework to Guide Student Career Paths

Frankfort School District 157-C Meeting | September 2025

Article Summary: The Frankfort School District 157-C Board of Education has formally adopted the state-mandated Postsecondary and Career Expectations (PaCE) framework. The program is designed to provide grade-specific milestones to help middle school students explore career pathways, educational opportunities, and financial options.

PaCE Framework Key Points:

• The board unanimously approved the PaCE framework for the 2025-2026 school year.

• PaCE provides a structure for students in grades 6-8 to explore interests, develop skills, and make plans for post-secondary success.

• Adoption of the framework is mandated by the Illinois State Board of Education.

The Frankfort School District 157-C Board of Education on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, officially approved the implementation of a state-mandated framework aimed at preparing middle schoolers for life after graduation.

In a unanimous 7-0 vote, the board adopted the Postsecondary and Career Expectations (PaCE) framework for the 2025-2026 school year. According to documents presented to the board, PaCE is designed to help students gain a better understanding of career pathways, educational opportunities, and financial options to make informed decisions about their future.

The framework outlines grade-specific milestones to ensure students are on track for success after high school. For example, by the end of 6th grade, students should be exposed to a wide range of careers and be supported in exploring their personal interests. By 8th grade, the framework calls for students to develop an educational plan for at least one career interest, compare possible financial futures, and complete a career cluster survey.

The goal is to prepare students more fully for the career and college planning that occurs at the high school level. The adoption of the PaCE framework is a requirement of the Illinois State Board of Education.