Superintendent details how city grant supported Burlington High School CTE programs

Superintendent Rob Scott and curriculum director Corey Johnson updated the council on how a $97,500 grant from the city’s economic-development committee was used to support career and technical education (CTE) at Burlington High School.

Scott said the funds were intended to furnish and expand CTE offerings after a $45 million renovation of the high school. Corey Johnson outlined the broad categories and approximate amounts: about $31,000 for science equipment, $21,000 for computer labs, $18,000 for health-occupations equipment (including simulation beds), $13,000 for general industrial technology, $12,000 for family and consumer sciences, and roughly $2,000 to establish a new cosmetology program with chairs and sink basins.

“Whether it be creating new programs, expanding existing programs, or just helping us replace some very outdated equipment, I believe we were able to put these funds to really good use,” Johnson said, pointing to a nearly $20,000 autoclave replacement and new simulation beds that allow expanded course offerings in partnership with South Eastern Community College.

Board president Anukica McVey thanked the council and invited members to tour the renovated high school. Several council members praised the project and noted interest from other districts in the renovation approach.

Next steps: district and city staff will continue partnerships around inspections and program expansion; no council action was required at the work session.