District reports growth in CTE certifications and dual-credit offerings; 418 certifications last year, 142 dual-credit opportunities now available

CTE and counseling staff told the board the district expanded career-technical education (CTE) certification pathways and dual-credit partnerships.

"Overall last year, we had 418 certifications across 30 different ways that students could get certified," a CTE presenter said. Staff reported certifications included chainsaw safety (partnered with Baker Technical Institute), small-engines repair, heavy-equipment operation, CPR/first aid, and food-handlers permits.

Staff also said the district now offers articulation for 142 possible college credits across 38 classes and six partnering institutions. Presenters described pathway planning meetings with students (incoming freshmen through seniors) to identify course sequences and dual-credit opportunities; counselors aim to meet with ninth graders as a priority and then with other grades prior to forecasting.

Board members pressed for clear measures of success. One member asked how the district will define whether pathways are meeting goals. Staff suggested measurable outcomes could include increases in college credits earned, CTE credentials completed (for example, six courses in a single CTE strand), on-track rates and reduced inequities between students who historically had strong family guidance and those without such support.

Board members urged staff to connect the pathway work to broader community messaging, including employers, seniors and potential bond voters, so the district's workforce preparation can be communicated consistently to different audiences.