EDUCATION
Building a Better Future Now by Cassidie Cox • photos courtesy LHISD
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eachers and community members in Liberty Hill have facilitated a wonderful program that may mitigate some angst about post-graduation options. With nearly 30 teachers and instructors, the Career and Technical Education Program (CTE) is broadening the career potential for hundreds of students. As Deah Twine, college career readiness and military coordinator, surveys 'classrooms' at Liberty Hill High School she discusses the nature of the teaching in each. They are not cubicles with desks, but kitchens, workshops, and medical and chemical labs. In each, CTE students are introduced to workplace competencies in a real-world, applied context to prepare them for today's labor market.
BUILDING A FUTURE LHHS' newest program is Construction Management and Inspection (photo right). Students can begin the certification process as early as ninth grade for a career in construction without the need for on-the-job apprenticeship. Deah says, “Being able to provide programs based on what is out there for our kids, and that they are interested in, is amazing."
or fundraisers. Teachers monitor students' work and progress but also give them creative allowance to make new things. Trent Schifflet, the teacher in charge of this program, shared a story about one who built a wood hat rack and, in a demonstration of program integration, applied skills from his welding class to add horseshoes to it.
COMMUNITY SUPPORT The CTE program is a community rich in connection to the real world. Parents and business owners are encouraged to come and speak to students about what to expect in the field as a worker or entrepreneur. Deah explains CTE is also beneficial for students planning to go to
The construction program not only gives students OSHA certifications and hands-on training, it allows them to give back to the community while they learn. In the classroom, students acquire physical skills while building furniture and appliances for other schools 4
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college, begin an internship, or simply looking for healthy ways to participate in school. Trent adds, "The majority enrolled in Construction may not be the students on sports teams or high-level academics. This little community gives them a special place to learn, grow, and be celebrated." He noted several students in his class who have made barbecues and will be hosting a cookout at the school for themselves and their friends. "The positivity shown to the students of this program will be felt by everyone long after the school year ends."
A STRONG START With 25 students in its first year, and many new students already inquiring about participation, Deah calls the program a success. She hopes to recruit more community members and subject matter experts to volunteer or teach and help give the students additional real world experience. Business owners, parents, and anyone who wants to help give these students real world experience are encouraged to reach out and offer help. Scan the code to learn more or sign up.
