St. Lawrence-Lewis BOCES career and technical education program is experiencing an enrollment surge of high school students in a trade or profession.

“The increased national recognition of the trades, the cost of college and student loans, our newly renovated facilities and our enhanced connections with businesses are helping to propel CTE to the forefront of educational pathways,” said Jane Akins, Director of Career and Technical Education.

In the 2020-2021 school year, 1012 St. Lawrence County students developed college and career skills through the BOCES CTE programs. That number jumped to 1,110 during the 2022-2023 school year, representing an almost 10% percent increase. While that number may not stand out as a grand change, the percentage of juniors and seniors in St. Lawrence County choosing CTE as a graduation pathway has surged from 45.9% to 58.62% in just 2 years. CTE isn’t merely a buzzword; it’s a transformative force. The enrollment trend continues as planning for next school year is upon us, with a record number of interested future students. We are projecting another 10% increase in total enrollment for the 2024-2025 school year. 

With the ever-increasing cost of college education, students and their families are seeking alternative pathways. CTE programs offer practical skills and direct pathways to employment, making them an attractive choice. Our classroom and hands-on workshop instruction also empowers students to gain valuable skills without breaking the bank. We see students who struggle with traditional classes thrive when they get into a hands-on program like electrical, carpentry or cosmetology.

The recent renovation of our CTE spaces has been a game-changer. Students now learn in modern labs and workshops equipped with cutting edge technology. These upgraded facilities create an inspiring learning environment that fosters skill development and innovation. Here, students cultivate skills that lead to postsecondary degrees, certificates, and apprenticeships.

Akins emphasizes, “Our CTE programs empower students to thrive whether they choose to enter directly into a career or pursue higher education, the skills they acquire here are invaluable.” 

St. Lawrence-Lewis BOCES CTE success isn’t accidental. It’s a testament to innovation, guided pathways, and unwavering commitment. As Congress renews its support for CTE programs, we stand ready. Our students aren’t just graduates; they’re architects of change.

St. Lawrence-Lewis BOCES career and technical education program is experiencing an enrollment surge of high school students in a trade or profession.

“The increased national recognition of the trades, the cost of college and student loans, our newly renovated facilities and our enhanced connections with businesses are helping to propel CTE to the forefront of educational pathways,” said Jane Akins, Director of Career and Technical Education.

In the 2020-2021 school year, 1012 St. Lawrence County students developed college and career skills through the BOCES CTE programs. That number jumped to 1,110 during the 2022-2023 school year, representing an almost 10% percent increase. While that number may not stand out as a grand change, the percentage of juniors and seniors in St. Lawrence County choosing CTE as a graduation pathway has surged from 45.9% to 58.62% in just 2 years. CTE isn’t merely a buzzword; it’s a transformative force. The enrollment trend continues as planning for next school year is upon us, with a record number of interested future students. We are projecting another 10% increase in total enrollment for the 2024-2025 school year. 

With the ever-increasing cost of college education, students and their families are seeking alternative pathways. CTE programs offer practical skills and direct pathways to employment, making them an attractive choice. Our classroom and hands-on workshop instruction also empowers students to gain valuable skills without breaking the bank. We see students who struggle with traditional classes thrive when they get into a hands-on program like electrical, carpentry or cosmetology.

The recent renovation of our CTE spaces has been a game-changer. Students now learn in modern labs and workshops equipped with cutting edge technology. These upgraded facilities create an inspiring learning environment that fosters skill development and innovation. Here, students cultivate skills that lead to postsecondary degrees, certificates, and apprenticeships.

Akins emphasizes, “Our CTE programs empower students to thrive whether they choose to enter directly into a career or pursue higher education, the skills they acquire here are invaluable.” 

St. Lawrence-Lewis BOCES CTE success isn’t accidental. It’s a testament to innovation, guided pathways, and unwavering commitment. As Congress renews its support for CTE programs, we stand ready. Our students aren’t just graduates; they’re architects of change.