Board accepts CTE monitoring report; district cites growth in dual-credit courses and youth apprenticeships

The Verona Area School District Board on Monday accepted the superintendent—s monitoring report on career and technical education, concluding the district is making reasonable progress on CTE outcomes. The report, presented at the board—s regular meeting, highlighted increases in high school students— participation in CTE coursework, growth in dual-credit college credits earned through local partnerships, and a rise in youth apprenticeship placements. District leaders told the board the most recent state data (2023-24) show about two-thirds of high school students accessed at least one CTE course; using provisional 2024-25 enrollment figures, that participation could rise to about 70 percent. Presenters said 91 students earned a total of 249 college credits through dual-credit CTE courses this year, and youth apprenticeship participation grew from 12 students to 21 over two years with 20 students already placed for next year. "The DPI employability skills ... allows students to get feedback from their employers and really grow in a professional setting," said Jenny Johnson, the district—s school-to-career coordinator, describing new credential and work-based learning options available to students. The district—s presentation noted CTE offerings across agriculture, computer science, business and marketing, information technology, family and consumer sciences, and technical education and engineering. Officials said the district partners with Madison College and Mid State Technical College for dual-credit classes, and highlighted industry credentials such as Madison College nursing assistant diplomas and Google IT certifications earned by students. Board member Juan Carlos moved to accept the monitoring report; Christopher seconded the motion. The board voted in favor. Board discussion touched on access barriers and equity: members asked about transportation for off-campus work experiences and whether participation aligns with demographic groups. Presenters said transportation can be a barrier in some cases and that the district provides bus passes or other supports as needed. Officials also said they are expanding financial-literacy content within academic and career planning and working to improve middle-school articulation so students can plan earlier. District staff listed partnerships with area employers and UW Health that led to paid apprenticeships in phlebotomy, medical assisting, nursing assistance and pharmacy technician roles. Officials also said they are expanding student organizations (DECA, FCCLA, HOSA) and supervised agricultural experiences tied to FFA. The board accepted the monitoring report as presented; district staff said they will continue work on expanding access, tracking concentrators (students completing two or more courses in a single CTE pathway), and reporting progress in future monitoring cycles.