Students showcase CTE skills; board launches student advisory group

Wilson Middle School students and their teachers demonstrated a career-and-technology project at the Carlisle Area School District board meeting, describing a student-run process that included designing a company, creating a logo and screen-printing sweatshirts by hand.

Teacher Mr Vistas described how students learned teamwork, elected officers and handled production, invoicing and sales to the school store. Student officers described public speaking, voting on ideas and overcoming challenges. A teacher reported that proceeds were earmarked for the PA Breast Cancer Coalition and that zip-up hoodies would be the next product.

Superintendent Colleen Friend also reported that the district’s first high-school student advisory group met with 22 students to discuss cell-phone protocols and mental-health supports; students said they adjusted to changes and expressed strong views on cell-phone use during study hall. The superintendent said the advisory group may include non-voting student members who present to the board.

A ninth-grade student, Elza Gato, told the board she advanced to Life Scout and outlined an Eagle Scout project to build a sustainable learning garden and asked for suggestions about possible sites and partnerships. The superintendent agreed to connect her with the science supervisor and principal to explore options.