LITTLE ROCK — Career and Technical Education programs provide students robust opportunities to obtain hands-on, real-world learning experiences that can lead to a successful career beyond high school. The Arkansas Department of Education is pleased to highlight and celebrate these talented students and educators during February’s Career and Technical Education Month.
Throughout the month of February, regional CTE showcases will be held to highlight local programs that serve as a bridge between K-12 and higher education. Students who continue to develop workforce skills in post-secondary CTE programs have access to greater career options.
The first student showcase is scheduled for 10 a.m. February 1 in the Capitol Rotunda. The event will feature state officers from each of the CTE student organizations, colleges and universities, and student ambassadors from the following high schools: Acorn, Beebe, De Queen, Fort Smith Northside, Gravette, Sheridan, Valley View, and the Career Academies of Central Arkansas. To learn more about the 16 additional showcases, visit https://dese.link/CTE-showcases.
“Career and Technical Education plays an essential role in student achievement and success, and we are pleased to celebrate Arkansas’ programs this month,” ADE Secretary Jacob Oliva said. “CTE graduates often serve as the backbone of today’s workforce and provide invaluable services to the community and citizens. They deserve to be recognized this month and throughout the year.”
The LEARNS Act emphasizes the importance and value of CTE programs. To ensure students have access to the best programs, ADE is working with stakeholders to update Career Ready Pathways, improve early access to CTE programs and activities for students in grades 6-8, and develop a career ready pathway to a high school diploma. More information about these efforts will be available this spring.
In addition to these initiatives, ADE recently received a $1.1 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education, with the possibility of receiving additional funds for up to three years. The Perkins Innovation and Modernization, Career-Connected High Schools grant will expand the Arkansas Career Coach Program from 54 to 75 counties. Arkansas’ program prepares middle and high school students for postsecondary education, employment, or military service.
To learn more about Arkansas’ CTE program, visit https://dcte.ade.arkansas.gov/.
