🎉 Happy New Year! 🎉
We’re excited to welcome January and kick off 2026 strong with Xplore! This month is all about hands-on career experiences that give students the chance to see it, try it, and imagine what’s possible across multiple industries.

We’re starting the year with an automotive job shadow and tour at Branch Automotive, giving students—especially those new to Xplore—a real look at careers in automotive and skilled trades. Creativity is also taking center stage as Larysa Medina (Graphic Designer) visits schools to show students what it means to be an entrepreneur, guiding them through branding and helping them design their own business logo.

Students interested in healthcare will hear from a guest speaker from the Children’s Hospital – Pathology Lab, who will pull back the curtain on behind-the-scenes medical careers and what it takes to work in the healthcare field. 🍽️ On the culinary side, we’re excited to continue our partnership with Maiz Denver Restaurant, hosting another tour for schools eager to explore both culinary careers and the business of running a restaurant.

To close out the month, we’re teaming up once again with BOMA (Building Owners and Managers Association) for a facility tour and career panel, giving students direct access to industry professionals and careers in building operations and management.

January is all about exploration, exposure, and momentum—and we’re excited to bring these meaningful opportunities to our students as we launch the new year. Thank you for your continued partnership, and here’s to a year full of possibilities! 

Know a business that should be part of Xplore?
The Xplore program is always looking to grow our network of industry partners—and we’d love your help!

Do you know a business, organization, or entrepreneur who might be interested in hosting students for a career tour, job shadow, or industry panel? If there’s a company you believe our Pathway students need to see and experience, we want to hear about it.

📩 Email your recommendations to:
adam_arellano@dpsk12.net

📣 Ask your community. Ask your network. Ask your social media! You never know which connection could open the door to a life-changing career experience for a student.

From trades to tech, healthcare to hospitality—Xplore opens doors to every industry.

Do you know someone who has overcome major challenges, including time in the system, and is now successful in their career or life? Storytelling helps Gilliam Youth Services students see what resilience looks like in real life and reminds them that their past does not define their future. If you or someone you know is interested in sharing a story of growth and perseverance with our students, please email me adam_arellano@dpsk12.net.

The 2026 Pathway Master Calendar is your one-stop guide to all the incredible career events, tours, and hands-on opportunities happening this year! 

This spring, we have two exciting opportunities on deck:
📚 University of Denver Sturm College of Law — March 12th
We’re looking for 20 students to explore the world of law, justice, and higher education at DU’s prestigious campus.

🔥 Dickey’s BBQ Pit with CEO Carla Wyckoff — March 18th
Students will meet a dynamic business owner, learn about culinary careers, and hear Carla’s inspiring journey of leadership and entrepreneurship.

More events are on the way — make sure your school signs up! Email adam_arellano@dpsk12.net. 

North Engagement Center students exploring careers at HairWorks Salon.

HairWorks Salon welcomed students from North Engagement Center for a hands-on career exploration experience focused on cosmetology. Students learned what it takes to become a cosmetologist, including training requirements, licensing, and the day-to-day responsibilities of working in a salon. The HairWorks team shared their personal career journeys, demonstrated professional techniques, and emphasized the importance of creativity, professionalism, and perseverance in the industry. This experience helped students connect their interests to real-world career pathways and imagine themselves in a future career in cosmetology.

From the kitchen to a career, Khadijah Andriantsoly job shadowing at Maiz Denver Restaurant. 

Student Khadijah Andriantsoly for DC-21 participated in a job shadow experience at Maiz Denver Restaurant, where she explored careers in the culinary industry and learned what it takes to work in a fast-paced restaurant environment. During the visit, Khadijah observed kitchen operations, assisted with food preparation, learned about food safety practices, and gained insight into customer service and teamwork. The Maiz Denver team shared their career journeys and explained how skills like time management, communication, and attention to detail are essential for success in the culinary field.

Do you have questions about the CCS Student Profile Reports? Here are some helpful implementation resources, including a staff guide, to support you through the process and ensure a smooth rollout at your school. These resources are designed to help staff understand the purpose of the reports and how to use them effectively to support students and their families. If you need additional assistance or have questions, please contact careerandcollegesuccess@dpsk12.org.

Do you know a student who may be interested in a paid apprenticeship opportunity through CareerWise? We encourage you to share this opportunity and refer interested students by emailing adam_arellano@dpsk12.net. The CareerWise apprenticeship application window will open on February 9 and close on April 20. Confirmed placement partners for this cycle include CoorsTek, Land Title, Sky Blue Builders, and Pinnacol, offering students hands-on experience across a variety of career pathways.