In Greenville ISD, we mean business when it comes to preparing our students for the world beyond graduation. And since February is Career and Technical Education Month, we are focusing on the wide array of classes and opportunities that help many students discover their talents.

 

 "Whether our students are career or college bound after graduation, we are focused on fully preparing them for life," Superintendent Dr. Demetrus Liggins said. "Students may choose from 73 CTE offerings ranging from anatomy and small animal science to floral design and welding."

 

Business partnerships play a crucial role in the Career and Technical Education program.

 

GISD is partnering with Greenville Economic Development officials to connect area employers with GISD students and parents.

 

"We're going to start by working together on the GHS Job Fair and the Board of Development Job Fair in April," said Greenville Board of Development Chairman Randy Tarpley. "Whether it's a summer job for a student or a permanent job for a parent, we want to educate our community about the many opportunities we have here in Greenville.

 

Business leaders also serve on a CTE Advisory board to align instruction with the skill sets employers are looking for, said Greenville High School Dean of Instruction Matt Spivy.

 

In addition, Greenville High School has a College and Career Center that helps students navigate college applications, scholarships, grant applications, job applications, testing and career counseling services.

 

"We've been open for two years, and just this year alone, we've had 1,600 students come through for help," College and Career Advisor Donna Toups said. "It's wonderful being able to help kids identify their strengths and plan their future."

 

This month, we will continue to share GISD's CTE success stories.