Tennessee celebrates the growth of its Career and Technical Education program

To kick off February’s Career and Technical Education Month, the Tennessee Department of Education (TDOE) is revisiting and celebrating the state’s investment in career readiness programs for students.Last year Tennessee invested a $500 million in career readiness through the Innovative School Models initiative. Those dollars ensured the program has the resources to be available to every public high school and middle school in the state.The Innovative School Models initiative helps prepare participating students for life after high school through programs aligned with Tennessee’s highest-demand skills and careers.“I am proud to celebrate and highlight the emphasis Tennessee has put on access to career-ready-curriculum and work-based learning opportunities for students,” said TDOE Commissioner Penny Schwinn. “Through our Innovative School Models initiative and the historic investment of $500 million by Governor Lee and the Tennessee General Assembly, the possibilities are endless to ensure our students are given the time, space, and resources to be equipped for success after high school.”In May of 2021, 21 schools were awarded Innovative School Model grants to continue their efforts in career readiness. This year, the department has approved 40 applications, with the 2023 application deadline extended until March 31.In order to provide career readiness opportunities, schools work with community partners to administer training programs and classes that will prepare students for post-secondary success. These community partnerships not only introduce career training from an earlier age, but also strengthen community relationships and create a local employment pipeline.“The missing link that the ISM grant provided was the resources to overcome all types of individual barriers to success for students, as well as an enhanced learning environment,” said Deidre Pendley, CTE Director, Bristol City Schools. “The Work-Based Learning program stresses the importance of learning and applying essential skills and is enhanced greatly by a host of community partnerships. We are so proud of our Bristol students and the successes they are experiencing through the support of the ISM grant!”TDOE says participating students seeking to enter the workforce immediately after graduation, or pursue further technical training, are able to bring more knowledge and experience to the table than professionals of their age traditionally would. The Innovative School Models allow for students to be introduced to career opportunities at an early age, ensuring preparedness and success upon entering the workforce.For students interested in career and technical training, this grant funding allows them to explore opportunities specific to their interests while fostering a pathway of growth and mentorship.“The ISM grant has allowed Washington County Schools to reimagine the way we think about high school transition,” said Crystal Fink, CTE Director, Washington County Schools. “Grant funding has allowed a more intentional focus on early grade career exploration. This awareness will allow for easier high school transition and opportunity for career readiness in the students’ chosen programs of study.”As National CTE Month progresses, the Department of Education will continue to spotlight career readiness opportunities across the state.