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Community speakers urge more CTE opportunities and technical programs; volunteer offers for grant help
Summary
Public commenters urged the board to expand CTE—including an automotive shop and biomedical or health‑occupations pathways—and offered pro‑bono grant‑writing and program support to help access state and federal funds.
Multiple community members used the public‑comment period to press the board to invest in career and technical education programs, including automotive instruction and health‑occupations pathways, and to accept outside support to apply for grants.
Nolan, an automotive instructor at Clatsop Community College, described a basic 'Auto 101' model that could be replicated in a small district shop and stressed CTE’s role in applied STEM and workforce readiness. He said practical shop experience teaches critical reading, mathematics and problem‑solving used in the trades.
Kimberly Herder, a former industry grant writer and CTE reviewer, told the board Seaside is “missing out on a ton of money” and offered to volunteer to help design grant applications and program plans. She requested follow‑up time beyond a three‑minute comment period so the district could explore options for SkillsUSA, biomedical pathways and other career‑connected learning. Board members invited her to provide contact information and requested staff follow up to schedule a longer discussion.
Separately, commenters also raised concerns about bargaining and staff supports, urging the board to hear both sides in negotiations and to ensure classified staff feel respected in the process.
