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Alvin ISD hailed as a CTE 'district of distinction'; board hears student apprenticeships and job offers
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Summary
Alvin ISD trustees heard a Career and Technical Education presentation highlighting 31 programs of study, 7,435 high‑school students enrolled in at least one CTE course, expanded dual‑enrollment options and work‑based learning that yielded 42 job offers and 30 acceptances from a recent signing day.
Alvin Independent School District was recognized as a Career and Technical Education (CTE) "district of distinction" during the board's meeting, and district staff outlined program growth, work‑based learning partnerships and enrollment figures that officials say prepare students for college and careers.
Miss Johansen, the district's CTE lead, told the board that CTE now spans K–12 and includes 31 programs of study and 123 courses districtwide. She said 7,435 high‑school students took at least one CTE course this year and 1,506 junior‑high students participated in CTE coursework. Nineteen of the programs culminate at the JB Hensler College and Career Academy, which houses specialized equipment and dual‑enrollment courses, including information technology, welding, culinary arts, pharmacy technician and EMT training.
Johansen described the JB Hensler model as a hub that allows students from comprehensive high schools to be shuttled in for multi‑hour blocks to use specialized labs and instruction. "It allows us to really capitalize on those assets, and offer them to the most possible students across the district," she said.
Carolyn Brzoski, a CTE partnership adviser, described work‑based learning placements and community partnerships. She cited a recent project in which construction students built a shed now located at a Habitat for Humanity home in La Porte. Brzoski said the district participates in signing days and career events; she reported that 78 students participated in a BCPC signing day last year, resulting in 42 job offers with 30 students accepting positions.
Students who spoke to the board described hands‑on training and certifications that helped them enter the workforce. Fernando Solorzano, a 2021 graduate, said earning HVAC certifications in high school helped him begin a job with Carrier Commercial Services. A student in the veterinary assistant program said completing the two‑year sequence led to a CVA certification and a job at a local clinic.
The presentation also promoted an upcoming Career Extravaganza scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 24 at JB Hensler intended to showcase programs for K–12 students and families. Board members praised the programs and encouraged district staff to continue publicizing CTE offerings.
The board acknowledged community donations and district outreach that support CTE, and thanked students and staff for demonstrations and materials provided for trustees to view.
