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CC RESA presenter highlights countywide CTE growth and student-success pathways
Summary
Jennifer Smith of CC RESA told the DeWitt Public Schools board that county career-expo and CTE programs have expanded, producing industry partnerships, paid placements and hundreds of college credits through articulated early-college agreements.
Jennifer Smith, introduced to the board as representing CC RESA's career and technical education programs, told school leaders the county's CTE offerings have grown and now routinely connect students to employers and college credit. She thanked DeWitt for hosting a career expo with "over a 130 booths" and described an upcoming "pilgrim path" career-preparation day for juniors and seniors that includes resume and LinkedIn help, mock interviews and employer pitches.
Smith said many CTE students earn industry credentials and can translate those into college credit through statewide articulated credit agreements. "Before we hired an early college coordinator 5 years ago, we had 2 students in computer networking. And now we have 68 students just 5 years later," she said, noting representation from every county district. She also cited program outcomes including allied-health students earning CNA certification and thousands of college credits earned through CTE work for reduced family cost.
Two students who participate in the welding program described hands-on, paid placements and equipment improvements that improved efficiency; one student said the program allowed them to "skip that entire second or two years" of training and move straight into work or apprenticeship opportunities. Smith highlighted partnerships with community colleges that permit students to earn transferable credits and, in some cases, an associate degree.
The presentation also addressed coordination with special-education staff to support students with IEPs and 504 plans who attend CTE classes. Smith said the CTE office invites caseload managers and district teachers into classes to align supports and ensure students can access the learning environment. She said enrollment pressure for some classes may require outreach to partner ISDs or added sections through Lansing Community College.
Board members asked about capacity and staffing for high-demand programs and the presenter said the district is tracking wait lists and exploring expanded sections and partnerships. The board did not take formal action during the presentation; the district will post additional slides and follow up with board members by email.
The board moved next to a separate assessment presentation and budget update.
