Middle school students were determined to be unaware of and unprepared for the requirements of the real world of work. They were unable to identify careers they were interested in pursuing nor did they understand the importance training plays in being successful in future careers. This practicum report discusses solutions for middle school students who were not being exposed to career choices, school districts which were not restructuring the career education curriculum, and the debate among educators regarding whether academic or vocational course offerings would be best for students. Also discussed are funding, the importance of life-long learning, and how the school and business community can support students in preparing them for their career future. Included in this document are: (1) description of the work setting; (2) study of the problem; (3) anticipated outcomes and evaluation instruments; (4) solution strategies; (5) results; (6) recommendations; (7) model career curriculum; and (8) dissemination. Analysis of the data revealed overwhelmingly that a career education program is a win-win solution for middle school students, parents, educators, businesses and political leaders. It also revealed that students of all academic levels, social skills, gender, ethnicity and economic status can benefit from a career education program. (Contains 37 references. Five appendices include two survey instruments.) (Author/JBJ)