Chester County board spotlights CTE teacher and student manufacturing program

Mister James Carter was introduced at the Chester County Board of Education's May meeting as the district nominee for teacher of the year. Board members praised a career and technical education (CTE) program that engages students in hands‑on manufacturing activities and connects them with local employers.

The introduction said Carter is one of the state's top 27 teacher nominees. In remarks that followed (recorded in the meeting transcript as Speaker 3), the speaker described a program that grew from a small shop effort into an expansive CTE initiative supported by parents, community businesses and school administrators. "The students are loving it. It is growing," the speaker said, noting increased parent involvement and community interest.

The program runs student activities that include truck autocross and car shows, student‑built and -painted trucks, and trophies crafted from car parts. The speaker told the board the group drew 54 participants at one early event and about 70 at another, and that student projects have attracted job offers and internship interest from employers in Tennessee and neighboring states.

Board members and presenters emphasized that the program is designed to prepare students for both work and further education. Speaker 4 pointed to partnerships with industry and curriculum development efforts, including work tied to the Manufacturing Skills Standards Council (MSSC) and contributions from Blue Oval as examples of employers helping shape pathways into certified technician roles.

Speaker 3 also announced a pilot five‑day manufacturing/STEM summer camp that will include RC tractor assembly, science demonstrations, guest speakers and hands‑on exercises. The initial pilot will keep enrollment small (about five to six rising freshmen and a similar number of sophomores) while organizers test the format and capacity. "We've got a sled, operating sled...the students are gonna be able to take those tractors," the speaker said.

Officials said the program has helped students secure scholarships and increased visibility for career pathways; the meeting referenced community partners such as Quality Metal, which has supported summer programming. Board members framed the effort as part of a broader "innovative school model" that emphasizes work‑based learning and career readiness.

The board's recognition closed with congratulations and encouragement as the nominee advances in the state Teacher of the Year process; presenters noted the possibility of further state‑level recognition and events in Nashville later this spring. The meeting moved afterward to routine project updates and committee business.