Career and Technical Education plays a crucial role in schools around the state of West Virginia; Wheeling Park High School included.
Every February, high schools and career centers around the country celebrate CTE month. West Virginia is home to 65 CTE programs, which allow students to explore all of the different career clusters.
However, Wheeling Park’s program seems to stick out, and our CTE Department Chair, Mrs. Dillon, seems to agree.
“I believe our program stands out from the rest, especially because so many of our teachers are also alumni of Wheeling Park and were in our chosen field when we were Patriots,” said Mrs. Dillon.
Not only does our program stick out, but it also affects a multitude of students.
“It provides our students an opportunity to prepare for jobs and careers straight out of high school,” said Mrs. Dillon.
For students who choose a more hands-on path, rather than academic, CTE preps them to go straight into the workforce when they receive their diploma.
“… CTE is why they come to school every day. That is powerful,’ said Mrs. Dillon.
Every year during CTE month, West Virginia students and their programs have the opportunity to go down to the state capital for CTE Day at the Legislature. This is a day for these students to present on their programs and show how Wheeling Park’s program is preparing them for life. This year, ten Park students, from five different programs went to the capital and displayed their skills.
Another CTE month tradition that Wheeling Park has instilled is our Middle School CTE Fair. Members from each program go to each of the four Ohio County middle schools and present on their program to the upcoming freshmen. This gives 8th Grade students the opportunity to see what programs are offered at Park.
Members of Wheeling Park’s CTE programs agree that they have benefited from being a member.
“The best part of being a member of a CTE program is the ability to prepare for your future. By joining the agricultural program as a whole, I have been able to obtain hands-on experience and knowledge that has helped me solidify my decision to pursue veterinary medicine,” said Trinity Kimmins.
“Being a member of the marketing CTE program is so amazing for me. It’s preparing me for my future and the people I get to work with make it even better. CTE has made my school life so much better!” said Hallie Lawson.
“My favorite part of being a member of a CTE program is FFA. FFA has given me a lot. It’s given me so many opportunities, and I have gotten so much more out of it than I think would have anywhere else,” said Japeth Bayes.
It’s safe to say that Wheeling Park has had another successful CTE month!
