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GI Tech director highlights high graduation and credential rates, flags enrollment and math gaps
Summary
Pat Onstadt told the board the GI Technical Education Center reported a 97.2% graduation rate, ~95% post‑program placement and 295 industry credentials in 2025, but CTE enrollment is down to 901 students (28.8%) and math proficiency is a noted area for intervention; the program outlined plans for CTE‑focused math supports and work‑based learning expansion.
Pat Onstadt, director of the Grama Isabella Technical Education Center, presented the center’s annual report to the Mount Pleasant Public School Board on April 20, emphasizing strong credentialing and placement while noting enrollment and math challenges.
On outcomes, Pat reported a 97.2% graduation rate and roughly 95% post‑program placement for students leaving CTE programs; 295 students earned industry credentials in 2025 and the center recorded 543 program completers. Pat said these metrics reflect industry‑led instruction and robust articulation agreements with several colleges.
Pat also described enrollment trends: the center currently serves 901 CTE students (about 28.8% participation) and has seen a downward trend. He attributed part of the decline to the state Michigan Merit curriculum and the two‑hour block requirement for CTE classes, which can limit student scheduling flexibility. Instructor recruitment was also cited as a limiting factor for running some programs.
To address those challenges, Pat outlined priorities for next year: targeted CTE math interventions (industry‑specific applied math), pushing each program to offer and attain an industry credential, and expanding paid work‑based learning placements toward a 10% paid placement goal. He also highlighted a recent career expo that drew more than 70 employers and approximately 1,800 students, and described student projects such as a 1,800‑square‑foot house built by construction trades students that will be listed for sale in July.
Board members praised student voice and the center’s outcomes and asked for continued updates on steps to boost enrollment and math proficiency.
Pat concluded by promising a comprehensive annual report link for board review later in the year.
