3/09/26 Volume 4, Edition 28

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

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.

Students interested in agriculture and animal science are invited to participate in two exciting upcoming events at Southern University.

The first event, SU Ag Day on the Bluff, will take place on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the F.G. Clark Activity Center on the SUBR campus. In celebration of National Agriculture Day, students will explore interactive agriculture booths, STEM activities, gardening stations, career exploration opportunities, and live demonstrations. 

The second event, Vet Explore 2026, will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the M.A. Edmond Arena & Multipurpose Building. This hands-on program allows students interested in veterinary science and animal care to learn about animal nutrition, participate in demonstrations, and hear directly from veterinary professionals.

These events provide valuable opportunities for students and families to explore careers in agriculture, veterinary science, and related fields while gaining hands-on learning experiences.

We were proud to support a financial simulation activity for high school students participating in the DEMCO Youth Ambassador Program. This interactive experience allowed students to practice budgeting, decision-making, and financial planning in a realistic, hands-on setting.

The DEMCO Youth Cooperative Ambassador Program is a leadership and educational initiative that helps students build real-world skills, explore career pathways, and develop stronger leadership and communication abilities through interactive learning experiences.

Activities like this empower students to better understand financial responsibility while preparing them for future success in college, careers, and life.

Students interested in attending ABC Pelican this fall are invited to the ABC Open House on March 12 from 5:00–6:30 PM. Come learn about training opportunities, career pathways, and how to get started! 

• Reminder: Students as young as 16 years old can enroll in ABC afternoon/evening classes with parent/guardian permission.

• Save the Date: The High School Craft Competition will take place on April 22. Guidebooks and additional details will be shared soon.

Don’t miss these great opportunities to build your future in the skilled trades!

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!

The Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® Nu Gamma Omega Chapter is pleased to offer a scholarship opportunity for eligible high school girls in East Baton Rouge Parish. This initiative reflects the organization’s continued commitment to supporting academic excellence and empowering young women within our community. Students who meet the eligibility requirements are encouraged to apply and take advantage of this opportunity to support their educational goals.

For additional information, please contact Dr. Ashlyn Harrison at (225) 302-0591 or Mrs. Leta Holmes at (337) 250-1793.

We appreciate Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated for investing in the future of our students and helping expand opportunities for success.