WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER

1/26/26 Volume 4, Edition 22

EBR Career and Technical Education Center (CTEC) is a regional training provider for high school students in high demand, high paying jobs in the Capital Region. CTEC provides rigorous, project-based instruction, Industry Based Credentials (IBC), and dual enrollment opportunities that can be used towards an Associate Degree while in high school.

"Your story starts here and ends WORKFORCE READY"

The Career and Technical Education Center (CTEC) provides students with unique opportunities to explore specialized career pathways not available at their home schools. CTEC equips students with the skills and experiences needed for success in high-demand industries and post-secondary education by offering hands-on training, industry-aligned certifications, and innovative learning environments.

CTEC is available to students interested in pathways not offered at home school sites.

We’re excited to welcome all our students, staff, and instructors back for another incredible year of hands-on learning and career exploration! Whether you're returning to continue your journey or stepping into our labs and classrooms for the first time, we’re proud to have you as part of our CTE family.

We look forward to new opportunities to grow your skills, connect with industry professionals, and prepare for a successful future in your chosen field — whether it's healthcare, technology, trades, or beyond.

Let’s work together, stay focused, and make this year your most impactful one yet!

Here’s to a safe, productive, and inspiring year at the Center!

Amber Renee Boyd

cte month.mp4

Amber Renee Boyd, Executive Director of Workforce Development

Mara Girona-Dodd, Administrative Director CTEC/CTE

Michael Hilton - Principal, CTEC

Greetings CTEC Stakeholders,

As we move toward the end of January, we remain focused on providing meaningful learning experiences and leadership opportunities that prepare our students for success beyond the classroom. Thank you for your continued partnership and support of the work happening across CTEC and JROTC.

A Message of Encouragement

Furthermore, we encourage every member of our CTEC community—students, families, staff, and partners—to embrace our Superintendent’s challenge to “DARE TO BE GREAT.” At CTEC, greatness is demonstrated through preparation, perseverance, and purpose. Together, we will continue to raise expectations and create opportunities that empower students to achieve their full potential.

Thank you for your continued support and belief in the mission of CTEC.

EBR Career & Technical Education Center (CTEC): Arts, AV Technology, & Communication (TV & Film) | Architecture & Construction | Health Sciences (EMT, CNA/Pre LPN, Patient Care, Certified Medical Assist) | Hospitality & Tourism (ProStart) | Information Technology (Computer Networking or Programing) | Manufacturing (HVAC, NCCER Electrical, NCCER Instrumentation, Process Technology Oil & Gas) | Transportation (Automotive Technician)

Engaging students in career development to ensure they graduate WORKFORCE READY!

Career Pathway Cards.pdf

DATES TO REMEMBER

January 2026

CTEC

27: Principals Meeting (Jan. 2026)
27: (FT) Northeast (9th & 10th)
29: (FT) Glasgow Middle

JROTC

- 24-27: JROTC National ROBOTICS Comp (Sandusky, OH)
- 28: JPA Staff Assistant Visit @ Glen Oaks
- 29: JPA Staff Asst. Visit @ Liberty MHS

TELL A FRIEND ABOUT CTEC

Click here for more information about CTEC

Program Summary and Pathway Offerings

EBR Career & Technical Education Center (CTEC): Arts, AV Technology, & Communication (TV & Film) | Architecture & Construction | Health Sciences (EMT, CNA/PreLPN, Patient Care, Certified Medical Assist) | Hospitality & Tourism (ProStart) | Information Technology (Computer Networking or Programing) | Manufacturing (HVAC, NCCER Electrical, NCCER Instrumentation, Process Technology Oil & Gas) | Transportation (Automotive Technician)

Engaging students in career development to ensure they graduate WORKFORCE READY!

Available programs include:

Culinary Arts
Media Arts
NCCER Instrumentation & Process Technology (Oil and Gas)
NCCER Electrical
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
Carpentry
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
Medical Assistant
Patient Care Technician
Pre-Licensed Practical Nurse (Pre-LPN)
Computer Networking
Computer Programming
Automotive Technology
NEW: ABC Pelican Partnership Off Site (Welding, Millwright, Pipefitting, Evening NCCER Electrical Classes)
NEW: Pre-Apprenticeship Off Site with Iron Workers Local 623 Union

Student Experience

Students enrolled in CTEC remain registered at their home high schools but attend CTEC for half a day every other day. This arrangement allows them to benefit from specialized training while maintaining their connection to their home school.

CTEC is designed to provide comprehensive career and technical education that aligns with regional industry needs, promotes equitable access to career pathways, and enhances both student outcomes and local economic development.

ARE YOU FOLLOWING US ON FACEBOOK AND INSTAGRAM?

Workforce Development Instagram

CTEC Facebook

Workforce Development Facebook

Remote Learning - Monday, January 26, 2026

www.facebook.com/share/p/1Byr7StcXk/

Not seeing anything above? Reauthenticate

Dear EBR Families,

Out of an abundance of caution due to the winter weather, possible icy road conditions and power outages expected on Monday, East Baton Rouge Parish Schools will move to an asynchronous learning day on Monday, January 26.

Students will not report to school in person. Teachers will provide assignments and learning activities for students to complete at home, and families should monitor school and teacher communications for specific instructions.

We will continue to closely monitor weather conditions throughout the weekend and remain in communication with local meteorologists. Any additional updates will be shared as soon as they are available.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support as we prioritize the safety of our students and staff.

Sincerely,

LaMont Cole

Student Voice Spotlight: Spotlight

On January 22, 2026, Nyssiah Ebanks, a high school senior at McKinley High School in the East Baton Rouge Parish School System, joined Career and Technical Education (CTE) leaders from across southern Louisiana for a 30-minute fireside chat held during a workshop hosted by the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE), offering a powerful student perspective on work-based learning and internships.

In addition to participating in the Learn and Earn Internship Program, Nyssiah is a student-athlete on the McKinley High School baseball team, participates in dual enrollment, and is on track to earn both his high school diploma and an associate degree during the same academic year. Through CTE coursework, he has also earned Industry-Based Credentials (IBCs) that support his career pathway.

When asked about his plans after high school, Nyssiah shared:

“I’m going to go to college for mechanical engineering. I also look for another internship in college for probably some type of auto tech program, because I really do love automotives.”

Nyssiah discussed how work-based learning opportunities helped him connect classroom instruction to real-world application and clarify his future goals. He emphasized that hands-on experiences encouraged him to think more intentionally about postsecondary education and career planning.

Currently, Nyssiah serves as a student intern in the service department at Bryant Harris BMW, where he described the responsibilities and exposure he has gained through the internship:

“They let me shadow the techs and sometimes help them out whenever I have any free time.”

He also shared that his experience extends into the parts department, giving him a broader understanding of dealership operations:

“I’m in the parts department, sorting different parts, getting tires, other things like that.”

Nyssiah further explained how this hands-on exposure has introduced him to inventory management and technical systems:

“They let us distribute the parts, assort the parts, catalog the parts — all different stuff to do with all different car parts.”

In addition to technical skills, Nyssiah described opportunities to observe customer service and digital processes:

“They let me watch them work online as well with different customers and setting up the BMW by catalog, where they buy and stuff.”

Through his participation in CTE coursework, dual enrollment, athletics, and the Learn and Earn Internship Program, Nyssiah provided valuable insight to education and workforce leaders across the state. His experience demonstrates how high-quality work-based learning programs can support student achievement, career readiness, and postsecondary success while engaging students with diverse interests and commitments.

Pathway Media Contest

It's Time To Compete!

We are issuing a challenge to all our media arts programs across our high schools. We are challenging your team to participate and showcase your best work to show off your pathways and JROTC programs.

Guidelines:

All clips must be 2 minutes or less
Must highlight each college and career pathway offered on your site and JROTC program if you have one
Link to Pathways by High School
Footage must include students in action
Highlight how these pathways lead to success after high school for students going straight to work, to vocational training, to community college, or to a 4+ year university.
Example CTEC Commercial (student made)

Due Date:

All media clips are due no later than February 14th to caucoin@ebrschools.org.

CTEC awarded ADF Grant for PK Playhouse at Melrose

Progress on the playhouse continues. Follow us weekly to see how it's coming along.

Field Trips/School Tours of CTEC

Sherwood Forest Middle - January 21, 2026

National EMS Academy Field Trip (CTEC)

IMG_1655.MOV

CTEC Students Complete 2nd Computer Build

NNDU5171.MOV

Community Helpers Day with Southdowns Pre-K

What's Happening Around the Center...

2nd District Archery Meet at Belaire High School (1-22-26)

Our archery teams continue to demonstrate impressive growth following the 2nd Archery Meet held at Belaire High School. Scores and performances reflected clear progress since last semester—an encouraging sign as teams prepare for the upcoming State Qualifier at Central High School and the State Championship Meet.

Individual Standouts:

🥇 Journi Davis — Zachary High School (1st place, 1301 points)
🥈 Anchhue Bun — Broadmoor High School (2nd place, 1229 points)
🥉 Desi Webster — Belaire High School (3rd place, 1186 points)

A special thank-you to Belaire High School administration and LTC Boyd-Donald for hosting and providing their gym facility. As teams look ahead, please ensure funding, transportation, and logistics are requested in advance to support continued success.

Keep up the great work—your dedication is paying off!

Liberty Magnet Shark Tank Team Heading to Nationals!

Congratulations! On behalf of the Office of Innovative and Specialized Programs, I am pleased to inform you that Liberty Magnet High School has been selected to represent East Baton Rouge Parish School System at the 2026 Magnet Schools of America Conference.

Your Magnet Shark Tank pitch was compelling, well-organized, and reflective of the innovative work taking place at Liberty. The judges were impressed by your focus on leadership development, career readiness, and authentic student experiences, as well as the clear alignment of your proposal to magnet best practices.

We would also like to extend our sincere appreciation to JROTC and Workforce Development for their financial support of this effort. Their funding contribution played a vital role in this opportunity. This collaboration strengthens our ability to demonstrate a shared commitment to investing in high-quality educational programming and student success.

This was a highly competitive selection process, and your team’s selection speaks to the strength of your vision, collaboration, and execution. Additional information regarding next steps, preparation timelines, and conference expectations will be shared in the coming weeks.

Congratulations again on this well-deserved achievement. We are proud to have Liberty Magnet High School represent our district on a national platform.

Respectfully,

Rosalind Wright, Ed.D.

JA Trades Event Coming March 25, 2026

The JA Trades Event is scheduled for March 25 at ABC Pelican. This hands-on career exploration experience will connect students directly with industry professionals and skilled trade pathways.

SPEMA will serve as the test school for this event, bringing 60 students to participate. While healthcare partners were unavailable for this session, the event will feature strong industry representation aligned with SPEMA’s pathways—providing students with meaningful exposure to real-world careers.

We look forward to a productive day of learning, networking, and workforce exploration!

Living Legacy in District 3 - Black History Essay Contest (Grades 1-12)

Dear Rock Stars!

I hope this message finds you well.

In recognition of Black History Month, I am pleased to invite your students to participate in the Living the Legacy in District 3 Black History Essay Contest. This opportunity is open to students in grades 1–12 who attend an East Baton Rouge Parish School and is designed to uplift student voice while supporting literacy, reflection, and critical thinking.

Essay prompts are developmentally appropriate and aligned by grade band. All participating students will receive a certificate of participation, and prizes will be awarded to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners in each category.

Key Information:

Deadline: Friday, February 6, 2026 by 5:00 PM
Submission: Essays may be emailed to cpowell3@ebrschools.org or mailed (postmarked by the deadline)
Eligibility: Students must attend an East Baton Rouge Parish School

For your convenience, full contest details—including prompts, word counts, formatting requirements, and judging criteria—are available here:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1TIwTNdHYTA0oeKUkf4CKiFms8I_ViX3EU2Ph3r_wpic/edit?usp=sharing

And, additional information and graphics attached.

I encourage you to share this opportunity with your teachers and students and to support classroom participation where possible. Thank you for your continued leadership and for helping us honor Black history by uplifting student voices across District 3.

Please feel free to reach out with any questions.

Sincerely,

Mrs. Carla Powell-Lewis, M.Ed.

Now Open - STEM Scholarship Opportunity for High-Achieving Young Women

Emmy Noether Awards

Applications are now open for the Emmy Noether Awards, a STEM merit-based scholarship program for qualifying female high school seniors in Louisiana and Mississippi who plan to pursue research-focused STEM degrees and careers.

Established in 2017 by the Joe W. and Dorothy Dorsett Brown Foundation, the Emmy Noether Awards recognize academically exceptional young women with strong aptitude in mathematics, science, and research. The award honors Emmy Noether, a pioneering mathematician whose work fundamentally shaped modern mathematics and theoretical physics.

Award Overview

· Gold Medalist: Up to $75,000 for qualified graduate-level programs

· Two Silver Medalists: $25,000 each for qualified graduate-level programs

· Awards are distributed over a three-year period following undergraduate completion

· Up to 10 additional applicants may be selected as Emmy Noether Scholars, each receiving a $2,000 undergraduate scholarship and access to mentorship, internships, and networking opportunities

· Awards Luncheon: June 5, 2025 | Lafayette, Louisiana

Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:

· Be female

· Be a current high school senior

· Reside in Louisiana or Mississippi

· Intend to pursue a research-based graduate degree and career in a STEM field

· Have a 28 or higher ACT score

Application Information

· Application Window: January 12 – March 30 (closes at Noon)

· Application Link: https://www.thebrownfoundation.org/emmy-noether-award.html

We respectfully request your partnership in helping us reach eligible students through your networks, programs, and outreach efforts. Please feel free to share the attached flyer, application link, or program details with students and families who may benefit from this opportunity.

Inaugural East Baton Rouge Parish School District Joint Military Ball 2026

You Are Cordially Invited!

The Inaugural East Baton Rouge Parish School District Joint Military Ball will be held on February 6, 2026, at Southern University and A&M College Cotillion Ballroom from 6:00 –10:00 PM.

Please join us as we celebrate and support the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) programs from across the East Baton Rouge Parish School District. This special evening will recognize the dedication, achievements, and future aspirations of our Cadets, as well as the instructors and community supporters who guide and mentor them toward success in college, military service, and civilian careers.

For additional information, please contact:

LTC (R) David Marshall at dmarshall2@ebrschools.org, or
LTC (R) Rafael Morrison at rmorrison@ebrschools.org.

We look forward to your presence as we honor leadership, service, and excellence.

Save the Date: Tara High School College & Career Fair – February 20, 2026

Tara High School is excited to announce its upcoming College & Career Fair, taking place on Friday, February 20, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. This event will bring together colleges, universities, training programs, military branches, and industry partners to help students explore pathways for life after high school.

Attendees will have the opportunity to:

Connect with college representatives and admissions teams
Learn about scholarships, financial aid, and academic programs
Meet industry professionals and discover high-demand careers
Explore training and certification opportunities
Prepare for the next steps in their postsecondary journeys

This event is open to students who are ready to map out their futures and gain valuable insight into the many opportunities awaiting them.

Registration details coming soon!
Mark your calendars—this is an event you won’t want to miss.

PATHWAY SPOTLIGHTS

Southeastern Louisiana University has opportunities for students pursuing post secondary education the Pathway: Arts, A/V Technology, & Communication

Southeastern Louisiana University has opportunities for students pursuing post secondary education the Pathway: Health Sciences

CEF “You Be the Solution” Challenge – Empowering Future STEM Leaders!

Great Opportunity for Students

CTEC is excited to share an outstanding opportunity for middle-grade students across our community—the CEF You Be the Solution Challenge, a free and engaging STEM competition designed for 5th–8th graders.

This team-based challenge (3–4 students per team) invites participants to:

Compete in the Regional Challenge by answering timed STEM questions using provided study materials.
Create an innovative video solution to address a real-world community problem.
Advance to the National Challenge, where combined scores determine top state performers and the five National Finalists who will compete for scholarships.

The Challenge fully supports educators with access to comprehensive resources before, during, and after the competition—including study guides, timelines, recruitment tools, instructional support, performance insights, and video feedback.

Registration opens in October, with Regional Challenges beginning in January.

The challenge cycle is starting now, and educators can join the mailing list by scanning the QR code on the flyer to stay updated.

Designed to make STEM fun, meaningful, and inspiring, the You Be the Solution Challenge helps students develop teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving skills—while igniting their passion for future STEM careers.

DATA DIVE

⭐Enrollment increased for 3rd consecutive year

⭐94% Dual Enrollment passage rate at CTEC

⭐Increase in Community Outreach, Career Field Trips, and Recruitment Events

⭐Increase in Industry-Based Credentials Earned

CTEC & TRANSPORTATION

Click the Bus to Register and Get Your Bus Route

Remember, your story starts here and ends Workforce Ready!

- Join CTEC

Pay Your School Fee $25

School Fee $25 (get your CTEC sweatshirt or t-shirt with a copy of your receipt.

Instagram

Facebook

Pathway Commercials

MediaComputer Commericial.mp4

COMPUTER SCIENCE

Medical_Commercial .mp4

MEDICAL DEPARTMENT

Culinary.mp4

CULINARY DEPARTMENT

CTEC Video - HD 1080p.mov

How Cool is CTEC?

http://www.domain-dsgn.com/case-study/ebr-ctec/

EBR Workforce Development Overview.pdf

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT (WFD) OVERVIEW:

The Workforce Development Department consists of Career and Technical Education, Work-Based Learned Programs (Internship), the Career and Technical Education Center, and JROTC programs across the district.

_____________________

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT (WFD) GOALS:

Goal 1: Ensure that all high schools and the Career Center have fully developed and implemented course progressions aligned with LDOE College and Career Pathways, with a focus on increasing the attainment of Industry-Based Certifications (IBCs).
Goal 2: Increase student participation in Work-Based Learning experiences, such as internships, and grow business partnerships that align with district goals.
Goal 3: Deliver curriculum support and professional development to CTE, Innovative Programs, and JROTC teachers across the district to increase instructional effectiveness, student achievement, align opportunities for Industry-Based Certification (IBC) attainment, and promote college and career readiness.

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