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Perry Central staff say early college programs give students career pathways and industry credentials
Summary
School staff described how Perry Central’s early college and CTE pathways let students earn dual credit and industry certificates (AutoCAD, Revit, CNA, CCMA, welding, truck chassis) and highlighted recent CTE recognition and classroom experience through Ivy Tech dual-credit courses.
Dana Harris, guidance counselor and dual-credit science teacher at Perry Central Junior-Senior High School, said the school’s early college program “gives our students so many different opportunities to be exposed to different careers” and to earn certifications or dual credit that go beyond a high school diploma.
The program includes career and technical education pathways in diesel services, elementary education, construction, pre-nursing and welding, Harris said. "In the diesel services pathway, students can earn a certificate in truck chassis systems just by taking the courses that we offer, earning the dual credits that are associated with those courses, and completing the pathway," she said.
A staff member reported that the school has been recognized for its CTE work, noting the school received a "CTE program of the year" designation and named a "CTE student of the year." That staff member said the early college model builds students’ persistence and helps many move on to four-year colleges or earn postsecondary credentials.
Mike Jarbo, who teaches the engineering pathway, described software and technical training available to students. "In the intro to engineering class, the students have the opportunity to take the AutoCAD certification at the end of the year," Jarbo said. He added that civil engineering and architecture classes were updated to teach Revit for 2-D and 3-D modeling.
Staff also described teacher-preparation options: students interested in becoming teachers can take up to four dual-credit classes through Ivy Tech Community College and gain in-class experience working one-on-one and with small groups.
School staff framed the offerings as part of a broader push for students to graduate with marketable skills. "We are very adamant in telling students that they need something beyond a high school diploma," Harris said, listing two-year and four-year degrees, military service or credentials as options.
No formal actions or votes were recorded in the transcript excerpt. The remarks focused on program features, industry-recognized certifications, and dual-credit pathways intended to prepare students for college and careers.
