Empowering Futures: NCCE Partners with Wichita Public Schools and Certiport to Certify Teachers and Students

by | Aug 22, 2025 | CTE | 0 comments

Preparing students for tomorrow's workforce

In an exciting collaboration aimed at enhancing digital literacy and career readiness, the Northwest Council for Computer Education (NCCE) has partnered with the Wichita Public Schools and Certiport to provide industry-recognized certifications for both teachers and students. This initiative is a significant step forward in preparing learners for the demands of the modern workforce while equipping educators with the tools they need to lead effectively in today’s classrooms.

Building a Future-Ready Workforce

Through this partnership, students in the Wichita Public Schools now have access to certification programs in high-demand areas such as Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS), Adobe Certified Professional, and IT Specialist certifications. These credentials, offered through Certiport, validate real-world skills and give students a competitive edge as they pursue higher education or enter the job market.

Why Industry Certification Matters:

  • Career Readiness: Certifications demonstrate proficiency in essential tools and technologies, making students more attractive to employers.
  • Confidence Boost: Earning a certification builds self-esteem and motivates students to pursue further learning.
  • College Credit Opportunities: Many certifications are eligible for college credit, giving students a head start on their post-secondary education.
  • Equity in Access: By integrating certification opportunities into the school day, all students—regardless of background—can participate and succeed.

Supporting Educators Through Professional Learning

The success of this initiative also hinges on empowering teachers. NCCE’s Professional Learning Specialists have worked closely with Wichita educators to provide training, resources, and ongoing support to ensure they are confident in delivering certification-aligned instruction.

Empowering students with digital skills is more than teaching tools—it’s shaping futures. Through our 4-year collaboration, Wichita teachers have expanded access to Microsoft and Adobe certifications through updated course materials that are aligned with certification objectives/industry standards, with more educators joining each year. In the 2024–25 school year alone, the number of certifications earned by students in the district doubled—proof that when we invest in digital literacy, limitless potential is unlocked. These certifications/courses allow students to earn dual credit and earn their post secondary assets required for graduation in Kansas.
Headshot photo of Diane Harrington

Diane Harrington

NCCE Professional Learning Specialist
The professional learning and coaching provided through our partnership with Wichita Public Schools empowered educators to seamlessly integrate industry certifications into their courses. This initiative has not only enhanced teacher development by aligning core content with industry standards but also provided students with tangible proof of their skills employers are actively seeking. As a result, students are graduating with industry-recognized certifications, opening doors to future career opportunities and effectively bridging the gap between education and the workforce.
Headshot photo of Maria Turner, M.A.Ed.

Maria Turner

NCCE Coordinator of Professional Learning
“Working alongside Diane has transformed our certification program. Her unwavering support with GMetrix and Certiport has empowered our teachers and streamlined our processes. In just two years, our certification numbers in Adobe and Microsoft have more than doubled—a true testament to the power of teamwork and dedication.”

Mandy Bredehoft

CTE Teaching Specialisting
witchita
Education Imagine Academy Business Teacher Wil Thompson with Jocelyn Garcia (top) and Dante Lott (left). Jocelyn and Dante earned their Microsoft Office Specialist Associate designations for earning certifications in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel (Microsoft 365 Apps). Certification testing day at Northwest High School (lower right).

A Model for Other Districts

This partnership serves as a model for how schools, nonprofits, and industry leaders can come together to create meaningful opportunities for students and educators alike. By aligning curriculum with industry standards and providing robust professional learning with coaching, the Wichita Public Schools is setting a new standard for 21st-century learning.

Headshot photo of Diane Harrington

Diane Harrington, NCCE Professional Learning Specialist

Sault Ste. Marie, MI

35+ years in Education, Sault Area High School and Career Center, Online Professor at Michigan Virtual

Authorized Testing Consultant for Certiport

LinkedIn

Skip to content