May 1, 2024 – Earlier this week, students at the Career Center who are committing to trades or the military after graduation got their time to shine during the high school’s CTE & Military Signing Day.
This is the third year that the Career Center has hosted this event. Mirroring the signing process student athletes go through when they commit to collegiate teams, CTE & Military Signing Day
has students sign up to begin apprenticeships with businesses or formally enlist with a branch of the armed forces. District leaders, teachers, alumni, families, and even state legislators were all present on Monday morning to honor the achievements of students who have secured a plan for the start of their careers.
“Your presence here today signifies your invaluable support in championing the significance of career and technical education and the armed forces as vital pathways to student success,” said Career Center Principal Nancy Martinez.
Though sometimes overlooked, CTE is an essential part of Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools’ curriculum. Students work hard to become well-versed in trades like electrical maintenance, automotive engineering, masonry, drone technology, and more so that they’re ready to contribute to the organizations they join straight out of high school. The 14 Career Center students who signed on Monday went through a rigorous qualification process while also keeping up with the demands of their standard graduation requirements.
“In making this transition, I want to thank you for doing the work. You guys are exemplary students,” said Career Development Coordinator Nancy Harris, who was participating in the ceremony on her last day before retirement. “I feel quite comfortable in the understanding that the future is in good hands.”
CTE also reflects the values of the North Carolina Portrait of a Graduate. Formally adopted by WS/FCS this school year, Portrait of a Graduate emphasizes durable skills like adaptability, communication, critical thinking, willingness to learn, and other abilities that will serve students well in any professional discipline. Considering the number of businesses that are interested in hiring WS/FCS students even ahead of their graduation, it’s safe to say those skills are already translating to the real-world economy.
“These durable skills will lead you far in wherever your next path takes you,” said Superintendent Tricia McManus. “You are future ready, and we are so proud of you.”
CTE & Military Signing Day is the informal kickoff to the district’s graduation season. Soon, hundreds of seniors will walk the stage and earn their diplomas after 13 years of dedicated work, and naturally, emotions are running high. State Representative Dr. Amber M. Baker, a former Kimberley Park Elementary School Principal whose former students will graduate this year, was proud to formally recognize the event on behalf of the General Assembly.
“This is the best time of year for educators,” Baker said. “As educators, we always look for way to celebrate our babies, even when they’re grown."