An advisory committee is an invaluable resource for making your program an effective career pathway for students. Advisory committees can forge partnerships, provide access to facilities and equipment, and enable work-based learning. A Minnesota Department of Education approved program is required to have an advisory committee as outlined in this MDE Advisory Committee spreadsheet.

Membership:

• Local employers who may hire your students
• Career and technical education (CTE) director or department chair for the school
• College partners (faculty, dean)
• School principal and/or superintendent
• Perkins consortium leader
• CTE teacher
• And, others that can add value

Helpful tips for a successful advisory committee:

• Meet at least twice per year.
• Keep agendas and minutes on file.
• Schedule meetings for the next 12 months.
• Determine community partnerships and resources.
• Begin discussions with college partners for college credit opportunities.
• Establish a planning committee (that includes one or more advisory committee member) to complete the more detailed work of developing and running the health science program. (See Step three.)

Resources:

Sample agenda for a first advisory committee meeting

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Continue to Step 3