Tennessee’s thriving business community relies on CTE teachers developing a strong workforce—and that work starts in education. Innovative preparations to ensure students are ready for the jobs of today and tomorrow may look entirely different than a traditional classroom or school experience. Innovative School Models can provide invaluable learning experiences that prepare students for success after graduation. The expansion was inspired by the Governor's Innovative Schools Model Grant. As part of the Tennessee’s ongoing commitment to bring Innovative School Models (ISMs) to every public middle and high school in Tennessee, the Tennessee Department of Education has awarded over $560 million across 137 public school districts and 45 public charter schools to invest in students and their postsecondary success. Mr. Joe Ely, CTE Director of Hamblen County Schools, expresses, “Thanks to the historic investment by Governor Lee and the Tennessee General Assembly, this grant funding distributed over 182 grants to increase opportunities for career readiness and student success statewide.”
First, The planning of this four year grant began in 2022. They are now in year three. BurWil Construction won the bid meaning they will be constructing it. The total cost will be $2,290,000. The Majority of the cost is covered by the Innovative Schools Model Grant given to Hamblen County Schools by Gov. Lee and the Tennessee General Assembly. Hamblen county schools will only be responsible for a small portion of the cost.
Furthermore, the expansion focuses on creating a collaborative, real-world learning space where students can apply theory using industry-standard tools. CTE programs such as Machine Light Repair (Automotive), Industrial Maintenance, Machining, and Nursing Education will be expanded, and a new Construction Classroom will be developed.
The overall goal is to make students more prepared for life after graduation by equipping students with work experience and skills. Ely expresses this by saying, “It will provide a real world collaborative workspace that allows students to put theory into practice using industry standard equipment and tools.” The expansion will further develop a variety of subjects including Machine Light Repair Class (Automotive), Industrial Maintenance, Machining, and Nursing Education classes.
Expansion of the current CTE wing allows students to grow and be better prepared for their futures. Hamblen county is grateful for the ability to give students better opportunities. Grants like those give students opportunities to understand the workforce that they may never get to experience otherwise. The impacts of this 2 million dollar project will leave a positive impact on West High for years to come.
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