Manassas City School Board supports CTE program growth and business partnerships

A heartfelt appreciation for the commitment to Career and Technical Education (CTE) took center stage at the Manassas School Board meeting on April 29, 2025. Educators and board members expressed gratitude for the tireless efforts of staff and local businesses in preparing students for life after high school.

During the meeting, Tara Eason and Eric Godwin were recognized for their significant contributions to the CTE program, which has successfully partnered with over 100 local businesses to provide internships and job shadowing opportunities. Eason emphasized the importance of these partnerships, stating, "Take a risk and trust the process," encouraging businesses to engage with students through internships and guest speaking opportunities.

The board also discussed the introduction of a mandatory career investigations course for seventh and eighth graders, aimed at equipping students with essential skills and knowledge for their future careers. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance student readiness for the workforce, which includes training for teachers to better support students with diverse needs.

Board members praised the positive impact of the CTE program, noting improvements in students' soft skills, such as eye contact and resume writing, which were highlighted during a recent career fair. Vice Chair Spall expressed pride in the aviation career exploration initiative, which aims to connect students with local aviation businesses.

As the meeting concluded, the board reaffirmed its commitment to tracking student outcomes post-graduation, planning to implement surveys to gather data on where students are employed and how well they are prepared for the workforce. This focus on accountability and community engagement underscores the school board's dedication to fostering a supportive environment for students in Manassas.