A new partnership between Ozaukee County 4-H and the Cedarburg School District is creating meaningful learning opportunities for youth across multiple grade levels. This collaboration brings 4-H Positive Youth Development programming directly into the school day, while also extending learning beyond the classroom through targeted career readiness experiences.

The partnership was designed with flexibility and accessibility in mind, meeting students where they are and integrating 4-H programming into existing school structures. By working closely with educators and school staff, the programming aligns with academic goals while also supporting youth development outcomes such as critical thinking, communication, and confidence.

At the high school level, students are participating in a book read embedded into the school day, creating a space where 4-H youth and non-4-H youth learn side by side. The book read encourages reflection, discussion, and connection to real-world experiences, while introducing students to 4-H as a supportive learning network beyond traditional extracurricular models.

In February, the partnership will expand to include career and interview workshops offered before and after the school day for high school students. These sessions focus on practical skills such as resume building, interview preparation, and career exploration. By offering programming outside of standard class hours, the workshops provide additional access for students interested in developing workforce readiness skills, regardless of prior involvement in 4-H.

Younger students will engage with 4-H programming in March through a reading and STEAM initiative for fourth and fifth graders. This program combines literacy with hands-on science, technology, engineering, art, and math activities delivered during the school day. The goal is to spark curiosity, reinforce classroom learning, and introduce students to problem-solving in a fun, interactive way.

This partnership reflects a shared commitment to supporting youth through collaborative, research-based education. By embedding 4-H programming within the Cedarburg School District, the collaboration expands access to positive youth development opportunities and strengthens connections between schools, families, and the broader community. As the partnership continues to grow, it also creates a model that can be shared with other school districts interested in integrating 4-H programming into their learning environments