MetroEd Superintendent presents SVCTE update: enrollment rising, college credit and internship gains

Erin O’Neil, new superintendent of MetroEd, presented an update on the Silicon Valley Career Technical Education (SVCTE) program at the Jan. 14 meeting, reporting growth in enrollment and program outcomes.

O’Neil told trustees that SVCTE has capacity for about 1,550 students across 25 programs and currently serves roughly 1,380 students. She reviewed program offerings — from metals technology to dental assisting — and highlighted a sports medicine program that partners with Foothills Community College to provide dual instruction and college credit. Those cooperative models enable students to earn industry certifications and college credit while participating in internships, O’Neil said.

MetroEd data for the district showed a rebound in student participation since COVID. For example, of 13 district students who participated in sports medicine during the cited year, five earned college credit and 12 earned industry certifications; one had an internship. O’Neil emphasized program retention: recent operational changes improved retention from day‑one to CBEDS count to nearly 90% for the current year.

When trustees asked about recruitment to fill available seats, O’Neil said MetroEd balances serving its Joint Powers Authority (JPA) districts with outreach to districts outside the JPA. She said registration opens this Friday, with a district‑wide opening to outside partners in April. O’Neil identified industry partners, counselors and district leaders as key collaborators to expand access and noted a vacant outreach position she is filling.

Board members and a student representative praised the programs and cited alum who went on to four‑year colleges or careers directly from certificate programs. O’Neil said MetroEd will provide follow‑up data and alumni stories to the district and explore additional dual‑enrollment and articulation agreements.