Erica Cedillo
CCMR Unit Coordinator I
Houston Independent School District
September 7, 2025
Superintendent Mike Miles

Dear Superintendent Miles and CCMR Leadership,

I am writing to propose an innovative solution to a critical gap in our College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR) efforts: many students lack authentic exposure to career pathways, mentorship, and real-world skills. While traditional career fairs and classroom lessons provide awareness, they do not offer sustained, personalized, and technology-driven experiences students need to succeed in today’s workforce.

Too many graduates leave high school without meaningful career exploration or mentor access to guide their next steps. This shortfall not only reduces student engagement but also limits equity and leaves students underprepared for college, career, or military pathways. Research shows that structured mentorship and digital learning significantly improve persistence, self-efficacy, and career readiness (Fletcher & Mullen, 2012; Schmidt & Nilsson, 2022).

  I propose developing a Digital Career Exploration & Mentorship Program, a hybrid model integrating technology with community partnerships:

·   AI-enabled mentor matching based on student interests, strengths, and goals

·   Virtual exploration labs with interactive simulations and workplace tours

·   Data dashboards to track student participation, mentor feedback, and skill growth

·   Blended mentorship combining in-person and virtual sessions

This program aligns with disruptive innovation principles (Christensen & Eyring, 2011), transforming traditional career readiness methods and delivering scalable, personalized, and equitable experiences.

Program Benefits

·   Equity & Access: All students gain access to high-quality mentors and career tools

·   Engagement: Immersive, interactive experiences sustain interest in real work

·   Future Readiness: Students develop digital literacy, communication, and problem-solving skills

·       Partnerships: Strengthens alignment with local business, higher education, and military organizations

Success Metrics

·   85% mentor-student matching rate in Year 1

·   20% increase in student self-reported career clarity and confidence

·   10% growth in CCMR indicators: endorsements, internships, industry certifications

·   Measurable gains in postsecondary persistence or workforce entry

Expanded Three-Year Roadmap

·   Year 1 (Pilot): Enroll 500 students across 5 high schools. Launch virtual labs and gather baseline data.

·   Year 2 (Scale): Expand to 3,000 students districtwide; integrate AI mentor matching; grow local partnerships.

·   Year 3 (Embed): Make the program part of HISD’s curriculum, provide access to ~8,000 juniors/seniors, and launch an alumni mentor network.

Sustainability & Funding Strategies

·   Funding: License fees for AI, simulation platforms, and dashboards offset through CCMR funds, state grants, and corporate sponsorships.

·   Professional Development: Train teachers, counselors, and mentor coordinators.

·   Curricular Alignment: Embed career exploration modules into advisory or CCMR coursework.

·   Community Investment: Employer contributions and partnerships.

·   Ethics & Privacy: Strong policies for student data and AI use.

This program is a proactive catalyst for change in how HISD students prepare for their futures. Combining mentorship, digital tools, and authentic career exploration creates a scalable, equitable program ensuring all students graduate future ready. I welcome the opportunity to discuss next steps for piloting this program. Thank you for your leadership and commitment to advancing HISD’s CCMR mission.

Sincerely,

Erica Cedillo
CCMR Unit Coordinator I
Houston Independent School District