***FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE***
December 2, 2025
CAPS Network and CAST Schools Unite to Advance the Future of Profession-Based Learning
National and Regional Innovators Join Forces to Redefine the High School Experience
OVERLAND PARK, KS & SAN ANTONIO, TX — Two of the nation’s leading models for real-world, career-connected education are joining forces. The CAPS Network and CAST Schools today announced a new partnership that formally welcomes CAST Schools as an affiliate within the CAPS Network.
This collaboration brings together CAPS Network’s national ecosystem of profession-based learning programs and CAST Schools’ industry-led, equity-driven public school network, creating a powerful platform for shared learning, innovation, and expanded opportunity for students and educators across the country.
A Partnership of Mutual Learning
At its core, this partnership represents a two-way exchange.
Through affiliation with CAPS, CAST Schools will connect to a national community of 139+ profession-based programs spanning 200+ school districts in 29 states — gaining access to shared curriculum frameworks, industry partnerships, and professional learning opportunities.
Simultaneously, the CAPS Network will draw from CAST’s deep experience in designing industry-led schools, its commitment to student voice and agency, and its leadership within the Carnegie Foundation’s Future of High School (FHS) Network — a national effort to reimagine how high schools prepare every learner for life after graduation.
“This partnership is more than an affiliation — it’s a collaboration between two organizations that share a deep belief in the potential of students to lead,” said Corey Mohn, President & Executive Director of the CAPS Network. “CAST’s record of creating industry-driven schools perfectly complements the CAPS approach to profession-based learning. Together, we’ll learn from one another, test new ideas, and accelerate what’s possible for students nationwide.”
Together, CAPS and CAST will co-develop new strategies for student agency, equitable access, industry credentialing, and community-anchored design, strengthening the movement toward a more authentic, human-centered model of education.
“CAST Schools has led the charge for student-driven, real-world, career-connected learning in the San Antonio, Texas region,” said Jeanne Russell, Executive Director of CAST Schools. “Joining the CAPS Network allows us to help shape and learn from a dynamic national movement where every student experiences school as a launchpad—gaining real-world insight and experience to step boldly into their future.”
About CAPS Network
The CAPS Network redefines high school education by embedding students in authentic, profession-based learning environments. Unlike traditional work-based learning initiatives, CAPS doesn’t just expose students to future careers; it equips them with the tools, knowledge, and real-world experience needed to thrive in a dynamic workforce. Through a network of dedicated affiliates and industry partnerships, CAPS brings immersive learning to life, empowering students to take on industry-level projects, engage with real clients, and apply their skills to address complex problems—beyond what classroom simulations or internships alone can provide. CAPS Network currently consists of 140 affiliate programs, with over 200 participating school districts across 29 states and four countries.
About CAST Schools
Founded in 2018, CAST (Centers for Applied Science & Technology) Schools is a San Antonio-based nonprofit network of tuition-free, career-themed public schools designed in partnership with industry leaders and higher education. The CAST model is grounded in four core pillars — Relationships, Authentic Learning, Equity, and Student Voice — ensuring every student graduates with college credit, an industry-recognized credential, and meaningful work experience. In 2025, CAST was selected by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching as one of 24 systems nationwide in its Future of High School network, recognizing CAST’s national leadership in career-connected, competency-based education.
Media Contacts
CAPS Network
Kate Parsons
Chief Strategy Officer
kate@yourcapsnetwork.org
https://www.yourcapsnetwork.org
CAST Schools
Joshua Collins
Public Relations Coordinator
josh@castschools.com
(210) 382-5933
https://www.castschools.com
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