Rochester schools highlight CTE growth; student earns first nationally recognized EMT credential

Rochester Community Schools used the Feb. 20 board meeting to spotlight career and technical education programs and to recognize students and industry partners supporting hands-on training.

Why it matters: District leaders said CTE programs provide career pathways and industry credentials that can lead directly into in-demand jobs. The board heard that the district offers 13 state-approved CTE programs and that 3,157 students participated in a CTE class in the 2024–25 school year — an increase of 530 students from the prior year.

CTE director Karen Molesbury described four program components — classroom instruction, laboratory learning, work-based learning and student leadership — and noted that teachers “are industry experts with over 4,000 hours of experience in their fields.” She said the CTE courses let students “earn industry recognized credentials, setting them on the path to success.”

The board recognized Aaliyah (Aliyah) Tasco, a Stoney Creek High School student, as the district’s first student in the EMT/fire program to receive a nationally recognized EMT certification; the district presented her with a framed certificate and a “certified” shirt. Partners who host clinical rotations — including Pomeroy, Henry Ford Health and Cedar Brook Senior Living Center — described student experiences in simulations and in clinical placements that include medication administration, phlebotomy observation and patient interaction. Student speakers said their clinical rotations influenced college and career plans: one said the experience solidified plans to study biopsychology at the University of Michigan; another said she will study physiology and neurobiology at the University of Pittsburgh.

Board members and administrators thanked the community partners and teachers for the “life-changing” experience, and staff said CTE month events, program information and a CTE “by the numbers” packet are available on the district website.

Ending: The spotlight emphasized CTE growth and employer partnerships as the district pursues career-focused training and credentialing opportunities for students.