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PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE
Hello CTC Parents, Students and Staff:
Building lasting relationships with students is crucial for career and technical education (CTE) teachers because it fosters trust, motivation, and long-term success. By developing strong connections, CTE teachers can better understand their students’ individual goals, learning styles, and challenges, allowing them to provide personalized support and guidance. Positive relationships also help create a classroom environment where students feel safe to take risks, ask questions, and engage deeply with hands-on learning experiences.
The CTE programs here at the Career and Technology Center prepare students for real-world careers, and mentorship from a trusted teacher. This level of advisement can boost confidence, provide networking opportunities, and encourage perseverance. When students know their teacher genuinely cares about their success, they are more likely to stay engaged, complete their education, and pursue meaningful career paths. Ultimately, strong student-teacher relationships in CTE programs lead to higher retention rates, increased skill development, and better workforce readiness.
As always, we welcome your questions, comments and suggestions. Please feel free to call or email me or any staff member any time and keep the lines of communication open so that we can, together, support and challenge “our” students.
Sincerely,
Michael Concepcion
STUDENTS OF THE MONTH
Natasha Agaba
Academy of Health Professions
February
Students of the Month
Connor Dixon
HVAC/Plumbing
Cosette Meeler
Homeland Security/Criminal Justice
Nylah Obiezue
Academy of Health Professions
Olivia Proper
Collision Repair
Joshua Ramos
Explorers
Geoffrey Rinker
Digital Design/Printing Methods
Gabriela Simmons
Physical Rehabilitation
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
Nylah Obiezue is an AoHP intern who began her internship at Waverly Elementary until her new employee orientation date at Frederick Health Hospital where she is currently completing her internship on a medical/surgical unit.
The Community School Nurse at Waverly Elementary, had this to say about Nylah: "I want to take a moment to tell you how much I enjoyed working with Nylah while she was here at Waverley. Every day she had a smile on her face and was helpful making ice packs, walking the littles back to class, checking temps on our sick friends that were waiting for parents, controlling traffic especially when it was just me her last day until the delegating nurse was able to come over at 1:40p...before the delegating nurse came over we had seen 54 kiddos. Sadly, I didn't get to say good bye to her as I got pulled into a meeting and by the time I got back she was gone. Please pass the word on to her that I said goodbye and was sad I didn't get to tell her in person and I wish her the best in college as I think she will make a great nurse. I know sometimes as a student that they don't realize the impact that they have or feel like that they were truly useful, but I assure you she was a God send."
Currently 35 certified nursing and geriatric nursing assistants are completing their internships in the local community. Thirty-two of these interns are in paid positions utilizing their certifications at Frederick Health Hospital (Medical/Surgical, Emergency Department, Pediatrics, Behavioral Health, Observation, Orthopedics, Oncology, Float Pool) Amber Hill Physical Therapy, Autumn Lake-Walkersville, Homewood at Crumland Farms, Autumn Lake-Braddock, Frederick Pediatrics, The Pediatric Center, Urgent Care, and Daybreak Adult Day Services while some chose to work in school health.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
LANDSCAPING AND AGRI-BUSINESS CREATE HARDSCAPE AT THE HOME & GARDEN EXPO
The Frederick County Career and Technology Center’s (CTC) Landscaping and Agribusiness Programs were proud to partner with Outdoor Solutions to create a stunning hardscape at the Frederick Fairgrounds by Building Nine. On March 14th, landscaping students dedicated their morning program time to preparing for the upcoming Home and Garden Expo on Saturday. They gained hands-on experience installing retaining walls, laying pavers, and learning valuable masonry and hardscaping techniques.
On Saturday, student volunteers from both programs spent the day enhancing the patio area by Building Nine. They continued building retaining walls and laying pavers, contributing to a larger, more functional outdoor space. Students also had the opportunity to explore potential job opportunities with Outdoor Solutions, gaining insights into the industry and the local job market. Select students even promoted CTC by participating in interviews with the Frederick News-Post, helping to spotlight CTC's programs and community partnerships.
A highlight of the event was seeing our students' younger siblings join in the activities. They had a fantastic time, and a few proudly received "Future CTC Student" shirts! The experience was enriching for everyone involved, and the landscaping students are already looking forward to designing plant beds to complement and enhance the new hardscape.
We extend our gratitude to Outdoor Solutions and CTC for providing such valuable learning opportunities that help students connect with employers and build skills for future success.
Click the PDF below to read the Frederick News-Post Home & Garden Expo article highlighting the CTC Builder Olympics:
MEDICAL ASSISTING PRACTICES PHLEBOTOMY SKILLS
Mrs. White's Dual Enrollment Medical Assisting students practice their phlebotomy skills in class.
CONGRATULATIONS MRS. MAHER!!!
Good luck to Mrs. Jenny Maher, CTC’s Teacher of the Year, for recently being named as a Semifinalist for the FCPS Teacher of the Year!
Jenny is currently an Academy of Health Professions nursing teacher, starting her teaching career at CTC in 2007. Mrs. Maher is a second career educator. She started her career as a registered nurse in the private sector prior to becoming a nursing teacher for FCPS. Jenny also has deep roots at the Career and Technology Center; she was a student in the CTC Nursing program from 1996-1997. Mrs. Maher has developed strong relationships with both her students and staff that extend far beyond their time together at CTC. Students will often seek professional guidance from her after that have graduated and secure jobs in the healthcare industry.
This year, Mrs. Maher has gone beyond the call of duty as she was elected to serve as a SkillsUSA Board of Directors for the State of Maryland. Thank you Mrs. Maher for all you do and good luck!!!
THE LEGACY OF MR. CARROLL SHRY JR.
As planting season approaches, it's a fitting time to honor the contributions of Mr. Carroll Shry Jr., an accomplished teacher alumni of the Frederick County Career and Technology Center (CTC). His career in education has made a significant impact, influencing countless students and teachers.
Carroll began his teaching career in 1965, teaching English at Frederick High School, before transitioning to teaching Agricultural Education and Horticulture at Steven Decatur High School in Berlin, Maryland. By 1968, he had begun teaching Horticulture at Linganore High School. He also served as a Future Farmers of America (FFA) Advisor for 44 years, leading his students and program to receive numerous awards.
In 1977, he piloted the first completely competency-based Agri-Business program in Maryland at the Frederick County Vo-Tech Center, now known as the Career and Technology Center (CTC). In addition to Agri-Business, Carroll also taught Horticulture and Landscaping. He wanted his program at CTC to entice students to explore opportunities in landscape design, plant taxonomy, soils, plant growth stimulants, plant propagation, greenhouse management, pest management, container-grown plants, art of bonsai, interior landscapes, shrubs and trees, annual bedding plants, perennials, ornamental grasses, deciduous trees, crops, holiday crafts/arrangements, floral design, and horticultural business operation. His vision was to ignite a passion for horticulture among students and equip them with the skills needed for successful careers.
Some of Carroll’s fondest memories were of students showcasing their skills throughout Frederick County. He collaborated with the Frederick County Student Construction Trades Association, allowing students to design and install landscapes for new homes built by the CTC construction trades students. This hands-on approach prepared students for real-world employment opportunities. His students also showcased their skills by designing floral gardens for public spaces and participating in state and national landscaping competitions. These activities not only honed their skills but also fostered a sense of community pride and engagement.
Carroll’s influence extended beyond the classroom. He traveled across Maryland promoting competency-based curricula, met with legislators to advocate for agricultural education. He also contributed to academic literature by co-authoring the textbook "Introductory Horticulture," now in its 9th edition.
Since retiring in 2010, Carroll has continued to influence agricultural education and the field of landscaping, coaching students for FFA competitions and supporting civic initiatives. As a Certified Professional Horticulturalist (CPH), he collaborates with organizations like Frederick Area Landscape Contractors and Nurserymen (FALCAN) to improve literacy and environmental efforts in the community. Carroll continues to support CTC, working with his former student and current CTC Agri-Business/Landscaping teacher, Diane Herndon. His dedication to education and community service truly embodies the spirit of lifelong learning and leadership.
To read more about the history of the Career and Technology Center click the PDF articles below:
COUNSELING SERVICES
SPRING CLEAN YOUR MIND
Some if not most of us have a mental list of tasks, projects, homework, etc. that we want or need to tackle. Spring is a great time to start tackling or “cleaning” this mental list. Spring cleaning your mind is similar in practice to spring cleaning your house: decluttering the things that are holding you back, reinventing or refining your values, and then maintaining that sense of mental cleanliness and self-awareness moving forward. Below are some tips for Spring cleaning your mind:
Break Bad Habits
- Tackle one habit at a time
- Pick a start date
Eliminate Negative Thoughts & Speech
- Approach problems as opportunities
- Take positive action whenever negative thoughts enter your mind
Clear Your Physical Space
- Donate any item/items you no longer need
- Clean your room and other areas of your home you access often
Develop Gratitude
- Make a list of things you are grateful for
- Appreciate simple pleasures
Develop and/or Maintain positive relationships
- Offer encouragement
- Be kind and allow yourself to be treated with kindness
Practice Mindfulness
- Observe your feelings/thoughts without judging them as good or bad
- Be present in the moment
MULTILINGUAL STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
Name: Jhade P.
Program: Cosmetology
What languages do you speak, and how did you learn them?
My first language is Spanish. I learned Spanish in my home country - Peru. I feel most comfortable speaking Spanish and I speak it at home with my family and friends.
What are some opportunities you’ve had because you speak multiple languages?
Being bilingual has allowed me to help other people at school and at home. For example, I helped translate for new families during the Open House at CTC. I have also helped my family with translation on different occasions such as a doctor’s visit. I know that being bilingual will help me to have some more opportunities to find a job and communicate with more people.
Is there anything you wish more people understood about being bilingual?
It takes more effort on my side to understand school work. I often have to ask other people to help me and look for resources such as Google Translate to complete my assignments or participate in discussions.
Are there any traditions or customs you enjoy that are tied to your bilingual background?
My favorite Peruvian tradition is the Carnival where all people meet in a city, they dance and play music. Ceviche is a traditional food that people eat during the Carnival. We dance salsa and festejo which is an Afro-Peruvian dance.
What advice would you give to students trying to learn a new language?
Don’t give up! Learning a new language is difficult because you are not only learning the language but also the culture that comes with it. My advice is to have patience and believe in yourself. Practice makes perfect!
CAREER COACH CORNER
For more information and/or to sign up for the Career Fair,
contact the CTC Career Coach, Ms. Edmonds.
Located in the CTC media center.
The Frederick County Career and Technology Center (CTC) is a Career and Technical Education (CTE) school. Our programs and classes combine academic knowledge with technical skills to prepare students for in-demand and high-skilled jobs. CTC provides students with opportunities to earn industry-recognized certifications and licenses, acquire college credit, and gain valuable work experience. CTC is one of many treasures in Frederick County. It is not only a place of great education and opportunities but also a place of camaraderie and nostalgia.
Want to know more about CTC? Click the links below:
CONTACT INFORMATION
Address: 7922 Opossumtown Pike Frederick, MD 21702
Phone: 227-203-3650
Fax: 227-203-3651
Website: http://education.fcps.org/ctc
Facebook: Frederick County Career & Tech Center
X (formerly Twitter): @FrederickCTC, @CTCPrincipal
Instagram: @fcps_ctc, @ctc_principal