Board briefed on programs planned for new CTE center; phase‑1 occupancy targeted for June

Public Schools of Robeson County curriculum staff on Feb. 21 presented the set of Career and Technical Education programs planned for phase 1 of the district’s new career center and reviewed the timeline for occupancy.

Doctor Wendy Dorsey Carr outlined the phase‑1 program slate, which includes automotive technology (with associated industry certifications), welding, a construction academy (carpentry, masonry, plumbing, electrical), emergency medical technician (EMT) training, drafting and engineering, network engineering, and Adobe/visual/video design. She also identified planned additions (in later phases) such as culinary arts, drone technology, Mediatronics and industry labs.

District construction staff reported a current phase‑1 completion date of June 26; staff noted that area D/phase‑2 work was not yet reflected in that completion date and that the contractor had assured the district it would provide a certificate of occupancy for phase‑1 if phase‑2 extended beyond that date. Board members asked whether local businesses had committed to use industry labs; staff said they had letters of interest but not formal commitments at this time.

The item was informational; the board did not vote on program lists or contracts at the meeting. Staff said a project committee will meet March 10 to continue occupancy planning and coordination with high school principals, CTE staff and potential employer partners.