Carter County expands college readiness initiatives and career exploration for high school students

Carter County Schools is taking significant steps to enhance college readiness and workforce preparedness among its students, as highlighted in the recent Board of Education meeting. The district is prioritizing initiatives that focus on ACT preparation, expanding access to diverse academic programs, and increasing early post-secondary opportunities, known as EBSON.

One of the key developments discussed was the partnership with TCAT and Northeast State, which allows high school students to earn dual enrollment credits. This year, students are enrolled in a variety of courses, including English, business management, psychology, welding, and advanced STEM applications. By successfully completing these courses and passing the required tests, students can graduate high school with college credits, providing them a head start in their post-secondary education.

Additionally, the district is enhancing career exploration activities for middle school students. Starting in sixth grade, students at Valley Middle School will have the opportunity to engage in career and technical education (CTE) courses, allowing them to explore various career paths over three years. This initiative aims to increase enrollment in CTE courses and help students obtain industry certifications, making them more workforce-ready upon graduation.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of ensuring students are enrolled in appropriate courses to meet graduation requirements as Tennessee Ready Graduates. Currently, students are earning industry certifications in areas such as welding, floral design, and Microsoft technologies, which will enable them to enter the workforce immediately after graduation.

These initiatives reflect Carter County Schools' commitment to preparing students for both college and careers, ensuring they have the skills and qualifications needed to succeed in a competitive job market. As these programs continue to develop, the district aims to further enhance educational opportunities and outcomes for all students.