CTE in Action
Welcome to the start of an exciting new school year! As we embark on this journey together, we are filled with enthusiasm and anticipation for the opportunities that lie ahead. This year promises to be a time of growth, learning, and inspiration for CTE staff and students.
Support and Collaboration:
We are here to support you every step of the way. Whether it is through professional development opportunities, collaborative planning sessions, or simply lending a listening ear, our goal is to ensure you have the resources and encouragement needed to thrive.
Innovation and Creativity:
Let's embrace innovation and creativity in our teaching practices. By exploring new methods and technologies, we can engage our students in meaningful and dynamic ways. Your innovative approaches will inspire a love for learning that will last a lifetime.
Community and Connection:
Building strong connections with our students, their families, and each other is vital. Together, we create a community that celebrates diversity, encourages open communication, and fosters mutual respect.
As we begin this new chapter, remember that your impact extends far beyond the classroom. You are shaping the future, one student at a time. Thank you for your dedication, resilience, and passion.
Here's to a successful and fulfilling school year!
CTE STAFF
"Our dedicated CTE staff are the backbone of our program, guiding students through real-world learning experiences that blend academic knowledge with practical skills. Their expertise and commitment to ensure that students are not only learning about concepts like food and construction safety and business skills, but are also applying these skills in creative and meaningful ways. We’re proud to have such passionate and talented educators leading the way in preparing our students for future success."
Engineering and Construction Academy
"Our talented students have successfully completed the construction of a beautiful bench outside the school. This project not only provided them with practical experience in design and carpentry but also taught them the value of teamwork and dedication. The bench now serves as a lasting contribution to our school environment, offering a welcoming spot for students, staff, and visitors to enjoy. We couldn’t be prouder of their hard work and the craftsmanship they displayed in bringing this project to life."
Agriculture
"Our agriculture program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in one of the world's most essential industries. From understanding the principles of crop and livestock management to exploring the latest advancements in sustainable farming practices, our students are prepared to address the challenges of feeding a growing population. Hands-on experiences, such as maintaining school gardens, managing small-scale livestock operations, and learning about modern agricultural technologies, provide our students with practical insights into the complexities of food production. By combining scientific knowledge with real-world applications, we are nurturing the next generation of agricultural leaders who will help ensure a sustainable future for all."
ServSafe Certification
"We are proud to announce that our students have successfully completed the ServSafe certification! This rigorous program equips them with essential knowledge in food safety, sanitation, and proper food handling practices. Achieving this certification not only demonstrates their commitment to maintaining the highest standards in food service but also prepares them for future careers in the culinary and hospitality industries. Congratulations to our students on this impressive accomplishment!"
SUMMER LEARNING OPPORTUNITY
"Our construction class provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the building industry, combining classroom instruction with hands-on projects that teach essential skills in carpentry, masonry, plumbing, and more. Whether they’re learning to read blueprints, framing a structure, or working with power tools, students gain practical experience that prepares them for careers in construction, architecture, and engineering. Through collaborative projects, such as building benches, sheds, or even small structures, students not only develop technical skills but also learn the importance of teamwork, safety, and attention to detail. Our construction class is more than just learning how to build—it's about constructing a solid foundation for future success."
WCS CTE 2024 Retreat
CTE Director, Derrick Fogg conducted the 2024 WCS CTE Retreat to start the year off with collaboration and information sharing. From ice breakers, to summer conference updates, to best practices, no stone was left unturned in getting our department grounded for the upcoming school year.
WCMS Welcomes Mr. Shirley!
The CTE department is excited to welcome our new middle school teacher, Mr. Marvin Shirley. With nine years of teaching experience in trades and industry, Mr. Shirley brings a wealth of knowledge that will assist students in becoming college and career-ready. He is eager to share his real-world expertise with students and facilitate the discovery of the practical side of education. His skills and knowledge will provide an opportunity for hands-on activities that boost student engagement while providing essential skills for future careers. Mr. Shirley is dedicated to creating a dynamic learning environment where creativity and critical thinking flourish.
CTE Teacher Turrentine Selected as WCHS Teacher of the Year
WaKisha Turrentine, CTE Business Teacher in the WCHS Business & Entrepreneurship Academy, earned recognition as Teacher of the Year for the 2024-2025 school year. She was recognized for her achievement during the annual WCS Staff Convocation on August 19th. Ms. Turrentine teaches Microsoft, Adobe and Cyber Security courses as well as helps students earn industry-recognized credentials. She also volunteered to lead the school yearbook project and manages a team of student volunteers interested in Media. Congratulations, Ms. T!
CTE Teachers Reunite to "Strengthen Our Core 4 Student Success"
WCS Staff Convocation marks the launch of a new school year, staff return from a well deserved summer break, and reuniting of district colleagues. WCHS staff wore tee shirts featuring our new theme ,"Strengthening Our Core 4 Student Success", that will drive our efforts throughout the school year. WCHS CTE Staff always find a way to have fun while reconnecting, and we look forward to collaborating on CTE endeavors!
Asping-Mogul Teens Participate in Summer REAL Entrepreneurship Camp
Students interested in owning a business participated in the Summer 2024 REAL Entrepreneurship Camp, sponsored by VGCC Small Business Department and hosted by CTE Summer Career Acceleration Empowerment Camp. Pamela Jordan, Career Development Coordinator, is a certified REAL Entrepreneurship Facilitator who led the Camp. Students were immersed into the world of business with a 4-day intensive training camp resulting in the development of a business plan and prototype. Students presented their business plans to a panel of industry professionals for review and meaningful feedback. We wish to thank VGCC Small Business Director, Carolyn Perry, for her sponsorship and involvement during the camp.
2024 Summer Freshman Orientation Includes Career Development Conversations
WCHS Career Development Coordinator, Pamela Jordan, spoke with Class of 2028 Freshmen this summer to get them grounded in the career planning mindset. She shared recent Career Development Plan legislation signed by Governor Roy Cooper, plans to faciltiate the Career Planning process, and the correlation between mental health and student success derived from her participation in the 2024 NCDA Summer Conference. The Freshmen also received infomation on CTE Academy Career Pathways and how their choices will guide future course selection. Best wishes to the Class of 2028!
