18 Sep McPherson County Community Foundation, local educators tour Blue Valley CAPS program
On Wednesday, Sept. 19, representatives from the McPherson County Community Foundation (MCCF) and staff from three county school districts toured the Blue Valley Center for Advanced Professional Studies (CAPS) facility in Overland Park.
The CAPS program, launched 16 years ago by the Blue Valley School District, gives high school students access to specialized courses that align with high-skill, high-demand job opportunities. Through the CAPS Network, the program has expanded to support 140 schools nationwide in building similar models.
The program is offered through local school districts as a supplementary education option for juniors and seniors. Much like selecting college courses, students choose areas of interest instead of following a set schedule.
CAPS Director Corey Mohn says that the program is meant to fast forward its students and better prepare them for their potential careers. Mohn believes that giving students earlier access to career-based education opportunities allows them to be more intentional with their career selections.
“Kids want to be a part of something that is unique,” said Mohn. “We’ve found that you have to give kids agency and the chance to advance their strengths.”
Students in the program are expected to meet professional standards. Projects are career-focused, and students are required to dress and act accordingly.
The second floor of the Blue Valley CAPS facility is dedicated to medical training, where students wear scrubs and practice in simulation hospital rooms designed to mirror real-world settings. Engineering, business operations and other career-focused courses are offered on additional floors.
Many classes are taught by former career professionals, and students often graduate with dual credits or certifications. They are also paired with mentors and industry leaders who provide real-world insight into career pathways.
“On any given day you can see as many adults in here working with these kids that are not teachers as opposed to teachers,” Mohn said.
The program is also not meant to be exclusionary, serving about 30% of seniors from Blue Valley’s five high schools. With no prerequisites, any interested student can enroll.
Mohn said the program not only prepares students for future careers but also builds confidence. When talking with several students, most said they enjoy the program because it shows them what they can do.
Foundation Staff toured the facility with administrative staff from Canton-Galva, Inman and Moundridge. The tour given by the CAPs Network gave staff an inside look as to how the original program operates and provided more information on the possibility of expanding the program to their schools.