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Superintendent and staff highlight teacher‑academy growth, Catalyst Center expansion and big device refresh
Summary
District leaders described efforts to 'grow your own' teachers, expand CTE/Catalyst programming (projected Catalyst enrollment from ~430 to 720), and modernize technology — including a large device refresh and bus Wi‑Fi funded in part by federal grants.
Superintendent remarks and multiple staff presentations highlighted three programmatic priorities: growing the district's teacher pipeline, expanding career and technical education through the Catalyst Center, and strengthening the district's technology backbone.
On teacher development, district staff described teacher academies and a state‑funded "Grow Your Own" grant that had grown applications (from 42 to the mid‑80s), with a goal of creating a self‑sustaining local pipeline of licensed teachers. Presenters asked the board to support extending funding and program elements so the district can sustain licensure and mentoring pathways.
Catalyst Center and CTE staff said the center currently serves about "400, 430 students" and projected enrollment of 720 next year as new programs (computer science, pharmacy technician accreditation and a construction management/tiny‑homes class) come online. Staff reported 53 business partners and roughly 200 completed industry projects; they said industry partnerships supply projects and potential internships and certifications aligned to local workforce needs.
Technology presenters described network upgrades with UETN to move school links from 1 Gbps to 10 Gbps in many locations, a device‑refresh program and use of federal DTL funds. IT staff said the district ordered 20,418 new cloudbooks and 7,160 iPads to replace older devices and will deploy Wi‑Fi on buses for student connectivity. Dr. Hansen and others summarized survey data showing high student reliance on school devices for home learning and increased Canvas course and user counts year over year.
Presenters said these programs are intended to improve teacher supply, increase project‑based learning opportunities and ensure students and teachers have consistent digital access.
