Welcome Letter from Mr. Thomas

Dear South CTA Students and Families,

Welcome to the 2026–2027 school year at South Career and Technical Academy.

As we begin our second year, South CTA is no longer just an idea or a new school opening its doors for the first time. It is a school community being built every day by our students, staff, families, and partners. Year one gave us a strong foundation. This year is about continuing to grow, refine, and strengthen the culture, systems, and opportunities that make South CTA different.

At South CTA, we talk about doors. By the time students graduate, they should be prepared to walk through any of the three doors: college, career, or military. Our goal is to make sure students have the skills, experiences, and confidence to choose their path and move toward it with purpose. We do not push students into one future. We prepare them for multiple futures and help them understand what it takes to be successful in each one.

South CTA was designed intentionally. Our programs connect to real industry needs. Our learning model emphasizes project-based learning, technical skills, professional skills, and student voice. Students are expected to think critically, collaborate, communicate, solve problems, and create work that matters. We hold high expectations because we believe our students are capable of more than they often realize.

Families are an essential part of that work. Whether you serve as a member of the School Organization Team, support your student through a major project, visit an exhibition, communicate with teachers, or simply help your student stay organized at home, your partnership matters. Our team is committed to clear communication, strong relationships, and a school culture rooted in respect, curiosity, accountability, and community.

If you have questions, reach out. If you have ideas, share them. If your student needs support, let us know. We are proud of what South CTA has become, and we are even more excited about what we will continue building together.

Sincerely,

Pate Thomas
Principal, South CTA