Area 30 Newsletter-February Edition

February is Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, a time to celebrate the vital role CTE programs play in preparing students for successful careers and bright futures. This month highlights the value of hands-on learning, technical skills, and real-world experiences that equip students to thrive in high-demand industries. Join us in recognizing our talented students and instructors who are shaping the workforce of tomorrow through CTE! Below are pictures from our CTE Student Appreciation Day.

Scholarships are not just for attending traditional college; scholarships can be used for the trades, certifications and/or tools needed for those going straight into the workforce. Apply, apply, apply!

Keystone Cooperative - Due March 1st

Hendricks Power - Due March 7th

Endeavor Communications - Due March 14th

Trilogy Health Services Foundation Scholarship - Due March 15th

Greencastle Alumni Dollars for Scholars - Due March 21st

South Putnam Dollars for Scholars - Due March 21st

Indiana Sheriffs’ Association Scholarship - Due April 1st

North Putnam Alumni Association Dollars for Scholars - Due April 1st

FBi Buildings - Ed Bahler Sr. Innovation and Construction Scholarship - Due April 11th

Special thanks to our amazing local employers for making these incredible learning opportunities possible!

Korben Boller, a senior at North Putnam High School, is making the most of his time in the I.C.E. program. He works at AC Electric in Danville, IN, while also completing an electrical apprenticeship through the Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc. On top of his schoolwork and job, he dedicates his evenings to classes in Indianapolis to further his training. Keep up the great work—we are so proud of you! Click here to learn more about ABC's apprenticeship program.

Alexa Travelstead, a 2021 GHS graduate of the Human and Social Services program, returned during CTE Week to inspire students by sharing how Area 30 helped her discover her passions. She now runs her own dog training business, works at a local veterinary clinic, and is furthering her education through Penn Foster. Alexa also brought her service dog Juno to visit!

Students concentrating in CTE graduate at significantly higher rates—approximately 96%—compared to the national average graduation rate of 85%.

Source: Association for Career & Technical Education (ACTE). (2024). CTE Works! 2024 Fact Sheet.

Earlier this month Interactive Media students participated in filming the Putnam County Reality Fair. They will be working on creating a promotional video to showcase the reality fair to 8th grade students next year. The Reality Fair is a hands-on activity for students to start thinking about their futures. It specifically focuses on determining financial resources they will need to accommodate their desired lifestyles and the value of education in being able to obtain well paying jobs that will support those chosen lifestyles.

Visit the Area 30 website for directions on how to submit your online enrollment form.

8th Graders from Greencastle, Cloverdale, Eminence, North Putnam, and South Putnam visited Area 30 this month for hands-on activities and a chance to explore all of our CTE programs!

Studies show that secondary CTE participants are more likely to be employed full-time and report higher job satisfaction, thanks to early exposure to career pathways.

Source: Association for Career & Technical Education (ACTE). (2020). CTE Delivers: Long-Term Outcomes.

Culinary Arts students competed in class-wide Ramen Challenge. The incredible Chef Mentor Jack London joined us as a guest judge for this fun day of noodle creativity. And the winners are...

Students in the Automotive Services Technology program are getting this 1995 Jeep project well underway with the body removed and the chassis thoroughly cleaned and freshly painted. It features all-new rear brakes, brake lines, shocks, and a new exhaust system for improved performance.

Students in the Automotive Collision Technology program are currently completing the installation of a new driver’s side floor pan and left side body panel, ensuring a solid and refreshed build.

Feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or depression is tough, but there are strategies that can really help. First, don’t underestimate the power of deep breathing—taking slow, deep breaths can calm your nervous system in moments of high stress. Staying active through exercise, even a short walk, boosts mood by releasing endorphins. Break tasks into smaller steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed, and create a routine that balances work with activities you enjoy. Most importantly, talk to someone you trust—friends, family, or a counselor. You’re not alone in how you feel, and reaching out can be the first step toward feeling better.

Brooke Lewis, a 2009 graduate of Greencastle High School and Area 30 alumna, completed the Teacher Education program, gaining valuable experience in an elementary classroom. After college, she returned to her hometown and has been teaching 4th grade at Tzouanakis Intermediate School for the past 11 years. Brooke’s experience in the cadet teaching program was pivotal in shaping her educational and career goals, inspiring her to pursue elementary and special education in college. One skill she values from Area 30 is collaboration, as working with students from different high schools prepared her to collaborate effectively in college and throughout her teaching career. She shared, "Collaboration is a vital part of teaching."

Brooke now mentors many of Area 30’s cadet teachers, coming full circle in her teaching journey. Her favorite part of teaching is working with students—watching them learn, grow, and stay curious about the world around them. She also loves working with a team of teachers who are passionate about helping students reach their full potential.

Brooke's advice to students: "Appreciate the time you have in school and don't take learning for granted. Every day provides opportunities to learn new information, practice important life skills, and can lead you down the path towards your goals. Fostering your education and relationships will benefit your lives now and for years to come."