CCPS Honors Black History Month and Career Technical Education with Student Engagement Activities

Under the warm glow of the Caroline County Public Schools meeting room, educators and board members gathered to honor Black History Month and celebrate the vital role of career and technical education (CTE) in shaping students' futures. The evening began with Ms. Courtney Lehner, a history instructional specialist, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the contributions of African Americans throughout history. This year’s theme, “African American Labor,” highlights the significant impact of Black workers on the nation’s economy and culture.

Lehner shared that CCPS is committed to celebrating this legacy through various initiatives. Students in the mass media class are documenting the stories of Port Royal's African American workforce, while art teachers collaborate with Historic Fort Royal to create an exhibit showcasing art and poetry inspired by local labor history. These projects aim to instill a sense of pride and understanding in students, connecting them to their community's past and inspiring them to contribute to a more inclusive future.

As the meeting progressed, Dr. Nabors took the floor to discuss CTE Month, which is celebrated in February. He highlighted the importance of career and technical education in preparing students for a skilled workforce. This month, CCPS is hosting a series of engaging activities designed to spark interest in CTE pathways among younger learners. Notably, students from the Junior Achievers and Teachers for Tomorrow programs are creating resources to introduce elementary students to key CTE concepts.

Upcoming events include CTE Days at elementary schools, a culinary field trip to Silver Diner, and hands-on learning experiences in carpentry and building trades. These initiatives aim to connect academic content with real-world applications, providing students with valuable insights into various career paths.

The meeting concluded with a sense of excitement for the future, as educators and board members reaffirmed their commitment to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion within the school community. As CCPS continues to honor the legacy of African Americans and promote career readiness, the hope is to inspire the next generation to build upon the resilience and creativity of those who came before them.