In March, Governor Polis and the Colorado Office of Economic Development announced nearly $3 million would be awarded to four rural Colorado collaboratives known as the Colorado Rural Talent Network (CRTN), a proposal supported by Lyra.
The collaborative includes the Fremont Multi-District Initiative, Southwest Colorado Education Collaborative, Western Slope Schools Career Collaborative, and Yampa Valley Partnership for Students, Stewardship, and Sustainability. Read more about these Climatarium hubs and their innovative model here.
CRTN represents an ambitious three-year plan to increase resource sharing, concurrent enrollment, and work-based learning programming in rural communities through innovative education intermediaries that help achieve rural economies of scale. Collectively, this blended coalition will serve 20 school districts in 12 counties, seven higher education partners, and non-profit business and industry partners across Western Colorado.
This historic funding to the Colorado Rural Talent Network will support these regions with building pathways in rural school districts, including career-connected learning, concurrent enrollment, and career and technical education – building on the work communities started through the Homegrown Talent Initiative, RISE Education Fund, and Rural Coaction Funding.
The funds are part of the $85 million Opportunity Now Colorado grant program, and focus on advancing high-wage, high-demand careers.
“We are ecstatic about this sustaining funding for the four CRTN rural collaboratives,” shared Mary Seawell, CEO of Lyra. “Their collective efforts are crucial for preparing Colorado’s rural learners for the jobs of today and tomorrow, including those impacted by climate change.”
Colorado Education Initiative, Colorado Succeeds, Empower Schools, and Lyra thank the many partners from across the state for leading this important work for Colorado students.
Building on Five Years of Career-Connecting Learning in Colorado
Building on its work with the CRTN collaborative, Lyra partnered with Colorado Education Initiative, Colorado Succeeds, and Empower Schools to publish the Elevating Rural Colorado report. This report highlights five years of impactful collaboration among local school districts, higher education institutions, and industry partners, showcasing successful career-connected learning models, policy advancements, and strategic investments that are creating equitable pathways for rural students. Dive into the insights, strategies, and ongoing efforts that are building a thriving future for Colorado's rural communities.
"Much of Lyra’s work happens behind the scenes, building on existing foundations to support rural leaders and educators as they align vision, resources, and educational offerings to support their students. We’ve seen in rural Colorado, career-connected learning is gaining significant traction. The collective efforts of state leaders, forward-thinking rural school districts, and higher ed partners are enhancing regional workforce and education initiatives, ensuring that students can access and receive the education needed to support their growth.”, stated Mary Seawell, Founder and CEO of Lyra.
Lyra’s Role in Supporting Education Systems
Colorado schools and students are engaging in climate literacy education in ways that build understanding of the issues and connect everyday actions to learning opportunities. At Lyra, we believe in supporting education communities by offering resources and expertise that supplement local education and career pathways. Setting students, educators, and local communities up for success is at the heart of Lyra’s mission.
Through work such as Climatarium’s rural hubs, and the new Seal of Climate Literacy, Lyra is building quality and accessible climate education pathways throughout Colorado.
Stay updated on Lyra’s ongoing efforts, Explore the Elevating Rural Colorado report to learn how innovative education models and strategic partnerships are revolutionizing rural education and economic development in Colorado, and dive into Lyra's partnerships by following our website for updates, and social media channels.
Learn More About Our Partners
About Colorado Education Initiative
The Colorado Education Initiative (CEI) is dedicated to advancing educational equity and innovation across Colorado. By partnering with schools, districts, and communities, CEI develops and implements initiatives that support student success and well-being. Their work focuses on ensuring every student in Colorado has access to high-quality educational opportunities that prepare them for future success.
About Colorado Succeeds
Colorado Succeeds is a network of business leaders committed to improving education in Colorado. By advocating for policies and initiatives that align the state's education system with workforce needs, Colorado Succeeds works to ensure that all students are prepared for the demands of a rapidly changing economy. Their mission is to make Colorado the best state in the nation for education and workforce development.
About Empower Schools
Empower Schools partners with communities to create innovative educational opportunities that drive student success. Through the establishment of autonomous schools and districts, Empower Schools assists educators and local leaders develop and implement solutions tailored to their students' needs. Their goal is to expand access to high-quality education for all students.
About Homegrown Talent Initiative
The Homegrown Talent Initiative (HTI) is a statewide effort to develop career-connected learning experiences for K-12 students in rural communities. To better prepare for life after graduation, schools and communities strategically focus on skill development, career-connected learning experiences, and flexible, relevant opportunities that align to student interests and local industry needs. HTI was founded by CEI and Colorado Succeeds and is supported by Lyra.
