The APEX program (Aspiring Professional Experience) at Waukee Community School District’s Innovation Learning Center is reshaping how high school students in Iowa engage with potential career paths. Directed by Michelle Hill, APEX empowers students to gain practical, hands-on experience in a variety of industries, preparing them for the workforce while they’re still in school. Established in 2014, the program has since become a trailblazer in Career and Technical Education (CTE), providing valuable insights into trades, health sciences, business, engineering, and more.

One of the most notable aspects of APEX is its ability to allow students to immerse themselves in real-world environments, applying their classroom knowledge directly to industry practices. The program’s popularity and success have led to a significant expansion, including the addition of an entire new wing dedicated to trades. This specialized area will feature a paint booth, robotics, and facilities for training in construction services, ensuring that students have access to the latest tools and technologies to master practical skills that are in demand by today’s employers.

APEX is among the first programs of its kind in the nation, setting a benchmark for other districts and serving as a model of CTE innovation. Community members are invited to experience this unique program firsthand at the APEX Showcase event on December 12th, where students will present their projects, and industry partners will highlight collaboration opportunities. For those interested in scheduling a personalized tour, Michelle Hill can be reached at [email protected].

Family Events:

• Songs & Stories @ Waukee Public Library
   Saturday, November 16, 10:00 AM
  25 minutes of interactive stories, songs, and rhymes for ages 0-5.
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• Christmas in the Garden @ Ted Lare
   Saturday, November 16, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  Enjoy crafts, games, face painting, and photos with Santa and the Snow Sisters. FREE event. Last day of the year for year-end deals.
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• Mini Barista Bash @ Premiere Dance Project
   Saturday, November 16, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
  Starbucks-themed event for kids ages 5-10. Create aprons, coffee bean art, and more. $30/student.
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• Dome for the Holidays @ Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
   Saturday, November 16, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  Illuminated light show, blown glass sculptures, music, train displays, and more. Runs Wednesdays-Sundays through December 31st.
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• Turkey Time Glow Bowling Party @ Warrior Lanes
   Sunday, November 17, 12:00 PM
  Unlimited bowling on one lane, shoes, pizza, and pop.
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Community Events:

• Athene Pedestrian Bridge Opening Ceremony
   Thursday, November 14th, 3:30 PM
  Seamless connection for cyclists and pedestrians linking parks and recreation areas in West Des Moines.
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• Des Moines Holiday Boutique @ Iowa Events Center
   Friday-Sunday, November 15-17
  Shop holiday gifts and decor. $14 admission (Kids 12 and under FREE).
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• Play in a Day Senior @ Waukee Community Education
   Saturday, November 16, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
  "Mean Girls" production for grades 5-9. Build leadership and acting skills.
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• Puppy Yoga @ Smash Park
   Saturday, November 16, 10:00 AM
  Partnering with Hope Animal Rescue. Mingle with adoptable dogs during yoga.
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• Look Local First - Holiday Sip N Shop @ Des Moines Heritage Center
   Saturday, November 16, 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM
  Shop from 30+ local vendors. Food trucks, photo ops, and more. FREE event.
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• Sourdough 101 Workshop by WildFlour Artisan
   Sunday, November 17, 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
  Learn how to make sourdough bread.
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Date Ideas:

• Kip Moore - Vibrant @ Vibrant Arena
   Thursday, November 14, 7:30 PM
  Enjoy Kip Moore live in concert.
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• Live Music @ Kenny’s Garage
   Friday, November 15, 8:00 PM - Grind
   Saturday, November 16, 8:00 PM - Feel Right Band
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• Live Music & Karaoke @ Mickey’s Waukee
   Friday, November 15, 9:00 PM - Karaoke
   Saturday, November 16, 8:30 PM - Live Music
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• Trans-Siberian Orchestra @ Wells Fargo Arena
   Thursday, November 14th, 7:00 PM
  Experience "The Lost Christmas Eve Tour" live.
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• Rudolph’s Rooftop @ The Republic on Grand
   Friday, November 15, 2:00 PM
  Holiday magic atop the AC Hotel. Runs through December 31st.
  • Michael Jackson Tribute - King Of Pop @ Prairie Meadows
   Saturday, November 16, 7:00 PM
  Experience an incredible tribute to the King of Pop.
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