In a lively meeting held on December 19, 2024, the Judson Independent School District (JISD) Board addressed significant changes to its Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, particularly focusing on engineering pathways. The discussion highlighted the addition of a drone unmanned vehicle career pathway at Wagner High School, which has sparked mixed reactions among board members regarding its relevance and demand.

Board member Ms. Ryan raised concerns about the decision to expand engineering programs, questioning the lack of engineering pathways in other areas of the district, especially in the Northern Feeder pattern, where parents have expressed a strong desire for such offerings. She emphasized the importance of aligning educational programs with community needs and labor market trends, citing a potential shortage of engineers as a generation of professionals approaches retirement.

Dr. Gosch, who presented the program changes, clarified that the new drone pathway is not a completely new initiative but rather a rebranding of existing programs. The drone certification, previously categorized under transportation, has now been integrated into the engineering curriculum, reflecting a shift in educational standards set by the Texas Education Agency (TEA). This adjustment aims to maintain student interest and certification opportunities in a field that has garnered significant attention.

Despite the enthusiasm for the drone program, concerns lingered about the limited expansion of engineering courses across the district. Board members noted that space constraints at various high schools hinder the introduction of new programs. The conversation revealed a broader issue: the need for more diverse CTE offerings that cater to the specific demands of different communities within the district.

The board ultimately approved the new innovative courses for the 2025-2026 school year, with a vote of 6-1. However, the discussions underscored a critical challenge for JISD: ensuring that educational pathways not only meet state requirements but also resonate with the aspirations and needs of students and families across the district. As the meeting concluded, the board's commitment to addressing these concerns remained evident, setting the stage for future discussions on how to better serve the diverse educational needs of the Judson community.