WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER

2/09/26 Volume 4, Edition 24

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 continue through February, we remain focused on providing high-quality learning experiences, meaningful professional development, and leadership opportunities for our students and staff. Thank you for your continued support and partnership as we advance our work across CTEC and JROTC programs.

As we move through the second semester, 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, expand opportunities, and prepare our students for success in college, careers, and life.

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

February 2026

CTEC

10: (FT) Northeast (7th & 8th)
16-17: Mardi Gras Break (School District Closed)
19: Belfair Montessori Magnet School Interactive Career Expo
26: (FT) Glasgow Middle

JROTC

- 12: LET 2 Board Competition (@ Northeast HS)
- 15: JLAB Bowl 2 Competition (School Location)
- 16-17: Mardi Gras Break (School District Closed)
- 19: LET 2 Board Winner (Cadet Pledge) - Central Office
- 21: LA State Rifle Marksmanship Meet - Zachary HS
- 21: LSU Pershing Rifle Drill Meet (LSU Campus)
- 23-27: BDE Chiefs & DAI JROTC Workshop (Fort Knox, KY)
- 26: Archery Competition (Belaire HS)
- 28: Drill Meet (Leesville HS) - Leesville, LA

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

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.

Building Baton Rouge's Future Workforce Through Industrial Crafts

Building Baton Rouge’s future workforce through industrial crafts

Sponsored by East Baton Rouge Parish School System

Across the Greater Baton Rouge region, industry leaders are sounding the alarm: highly skilled craftsmen are retiring faster than they can be replaced. From welders and millwrights to electricians and ironworkers, these careers are essential to keeping the industrial economy running, and they also offer students a clear path to stability, advancement and long-term success.

The East Baton Rouge Parish School System is answering this call through a strategic focus on industrial crafts and workforce development. According to Amber Boyd, Executive Director of Workforce Development with the East Baton Rouge Parish School System, the goal is to prepare students to graduate college and career ready while directly addressing the needs of the region’s workforce.

Capitol High Features Amber Boyd on In The Den Interview

CTEC is excited to share that Amber Boyd recently sat down for an in-depth conversation with Capitol High School’s In The Den interview series! During the episode, Amber discussed her experiences, insights, and the journey that has shaped her professional and personal growth. Her interview offers valuable perspectives that are both inspiring and informative for students and the CTEC community alike.

Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/ZMBh8217ZwI

Be sure to check it out to hear Amber’s story firsthand and pick up encouragement and wisdom from her conversation with Capitol High!

Field Trips / Tours of CTEC

SPEMA Visits CTEC - 02/03/2026

Belfair Montessori Magnet Visits CTEC - 02/05/2026

CTEC awarded ADF Grant for PK Playhouse at Melrose

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

CTEC Chefs 1st Saturday Prep Day for ProStart Competition

What's Happening Around the Center...

CTE Around the District

Woodlawn High Mentoring Men with JA

Our JA Mentoring Men event at Woodlawn High School brought together an outstanding group of leaders who shared their time, stories, and encouragement with the students! You helped these students see new possibilities for themselves, and the confidence they walked away with was powerful. Thank you to Mrs. Rogillio for all her help in coordinating this event!

This event would not be possible without our amazing sponsors, like Capital One! thank you for your commitment to mentorship and for the positive impact you’re helping create in our community!

You are helping shape the next generation of leaders!

Glen Oaks High Health Science Magnet

We had a great visit at Glen Oaks High today, spending time with their Health Sciences Magnet students as they demonstrated patient intake skills. It was impressive to see students confidently applying what they’ve learned in real-world scenarios, showing professionalism and attention to detail. The future of healthcare is in good hands at Glen Oaks!

Westdale Middle's AMAZING STEM Night

We had an amazing STEM Night this evening. Thank you to everyone who came out and helped make tonight a success!

Anchors today. Journalists tomorrow.

McKinley Senior High School's Media Team had an amazing time helping elementary students anchor, report, edit, and script during EBR Digital Media Elementary Day. The future is bright!

Exxon High School Internship Program Accepting Applications

Rising juniors and seniors can get industry experience (and a head start on their futures!) by participating in ExxonMobil's eight-week High School Internship Program. Through the program, students can explore careers as electricians, instrument technicians, machinists, pipefitters, welders, analyzer technicians, laboratory technicians, engineers and more – all while working 40-hour weeks and earning a competitive wage. The program started in 2021 with six students and has grown significantly each year.

Each student has an employee mentor and is receiving hands-on training in addition to working on an intensive technical project throughout the summer. Beyond career exploration, the program includes volunteering, resume building, interview skills, presentation skills and contractor site visits.

https://corporate.exxonmobil.com/locations/united-states/baton-rouge-operations/developing-our-workforce

Application Deadline = February 15, 2026

LSU Ag Center Summer Internship Opportunity

Are you a current or rising junior, senior or grad student interested in working in LSU AgCenter Cooperative Extension? Spend your summer learning how to plan and conduct extension programs by working alongside our educators at a parish Extension office.

Internship Overview:

Twenty (20) positions available throughout Louisiana
Students enrolled in Agriculture & Natural Resources, Family and Consumer Sciences, Extension Education, or a related field are encouraged to apply Interns earn $15/hour for 8-10 weeks, not to exceed 400 hours
Interns must submit an application and will go through an interview process
Interns will complete a project, report and video highlighting their experience
Interns may work with their advisor for college credit for the internship

https://www.lsuagcenter.com/articles/page1681407871291

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!

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.

College Readiness Around the District

Capitol High's Medical Focus Showcase

In lieu of a traditional Black History program, this year’s showcase will highlight health disparities and mental health within the African American community.

The official time and location will be announced within the next week.

Tara High School College & Career Fair

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.

Park Elementary School Science Fair

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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