Letter – Impressed with CTE program

Published 6:02 pm Tuesday, February 4, 2025

Editor, The Smithfield Times:

Recently, 12 members from the “Gatling Pointe Girlfriends,” a local group of women who socialize and pursue community volunteer opportunities, were honored to visit the Isle of Wight County Career and Technical Education Facilities at Windsor and Smithfield high schools and Windsor Elementary. 

Our guide, Natalie Street, instructional coordinator of PD, CTE at Smithfield High, explained that CTE programs provide career-focused learning in essential employment skills as well as job-specific technical skills. Students prepare for in-demand, high-paying jobs and other postsecondary options. We visited Engineering, Welding, Manufacturing Systems, Junior ROTC and the Nurse Aide Training departments. A highlight was our gourmet luncheon prepared and served by the Culinary Department at the on-site training restaurant, “Turner & 10.”

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Visiting Windsor Elementary School, we toured the Early Childhood Development program, which prepares future early childhood education instructors. The “Agricultural Land Lab” is a working farm on 30 acres of school-owned property where students practice a broad range of hands-on farm activities, preparing them for a variety of farm-related fields.

The instructors are highly qualified professionals with extensive industry experience providing leadership, inspiration and motivation promoting a sense of pride and accountability. The training spaces are designed to realistically simulate the actual workplace environment complete with state-of-the-art, industry-standard equipment. 

While attending Isle of Wight County CTE, students explore a wide range of careers, gaining valuable skills and experience. They have the opportunity to obtain college credits in partnership with community colleges and universities. They prepare for industry certifications and may obtain credentials while enrolled in CTE or upon graduation. 

Visionary local and regional industries partner with CTE, offering internships and apprenticeships providing valuable workplace experience. Many students transition directly into employment within our community immediately after graduation. Isle of Wight County CTE programs have been recognized in the industry, receiving awards and top honors for their innovative and successful career training programs. 

A common question from my group is, “Why didn’t I know about this program?” I encourage community members to become familiar with yet another positive aspect of living in Isle of Wight County. I am proud of our school district for its dedication to optimally preparing students to enter the future workforce confident and competent. 

With the promise of these well-prepared graduating students, our community remains strong, and our future looks bright!

 

Gail Smith

Smithfield