Charleston, SC, August 13, 2025
News Summary
The Charleston County School District is experiencing a significant increase in enrollment in its career and technical education (CTE) programs, with participation soaring by over 50%. More than 3,500 students have registered for 5,050 CTE courses, reflecting a growing interest in vocational training among high school students. Key centers like East Cooper, West Ashley, and Cooper River have seen substantial enrollment increases, emphasizing the importance of CTE programs in preparing students for successful careers in various fields.
Charleston, SC – The Charleston County School District is witnessing a remarkable increase in enrollment in its career and technical education (CTE) programs, with participation soaring by more than 50%. The surge in enrollment highlights the growing interest and importance of vocational training among students in the district.
Newly released enrollment figures indicate substantial growth across various CTE programs, which cover a vast array of fields including healthcare, horticulture, construction, and engineering. In total, over 3,500 students have registered for 5,050 CTE courses across different centers in the district.
The Center for Advanced Studies at West Ashley High School has reported 700 students enrolled in 1,100 CTE courses, while the Cooper River Center for Advanced Studies shows 750 students enrolled in 1,150 courses, reflecting a 44% increase since last year. The East Cooper Center for Advanced Studies has the largest enrollment, boasting 1,800 students participating in 2,800 courses. These statistics emphasize the growing demand for CTE options among high school students.
Richard Gordon, Executive Director of CTE, noted that students involved in these programs typically demonstrate a lower dropout rate and higher post-graduation success. The district aims to improve the percentage of its students deemed career and college ready, which currently stands at approximately 47%. This goal underscores the district’s commitment to equipping students with essential skills for future employment.
All CTE courses available are categorized as high skill, high demand, and high wage, ensuring students are prepared for the modern job market. Gordon stressed that these programs play a critical role in preparing students for various postsecondary paths, including college, military service, or direct entry into the workforce.
To further strengthen its CTE offerings, the Charleston County School District is actively seeking to build partnerships with local businesses and organizations. These collaborations begin as early as elementary school with career awareness initiatives, transitioning into career exploration in middle school. In high school, CTE experiences evolve into meaningful opportunities such as internships, apprenticeships, job shadowing, and work-based learning projects.
Over 100 business partners are engaged in shaping the CTE curriculum and providing hands-on training opportunities for students. Collaborations include businesses advising on essential skill sets for the evolving job market while directly mentoring students through apprenticeship programs. Gordon emphasized the necessity for these partnerships to remain adaptive and flexible, especially in light of challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.
A national report from the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) revealed a trend of declining enrollment in CTE courses across the country; however, it noted the resilience and adaptability of Charleston’s CTE programs even during the pandemic. The district’s commitment to CTE aims not only to enhance individual student futures but also to transform communities by connecting students with promising career opportunities in fast-paced and developing fields.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Charleston County School District experiencing?
The district is seeing a significant increase in enrollment in career and technical education (CTE) programs, with over 50% more students participating this year.
2. What types of courses are included in CTE programs?
CTE programs cover various fields such as healthcare, horticulture, construction, and engineering.
3. How many students are enrolled in CTE programs in total?
More than 3,500 students are enrolled in a total of 5,050 CTE courses across different centers in the district.
4. What benefits do students gain from CTE programs?
Students in CTE programs are less likely to drop out of high school and have improved chances of success after graduation. The programs also provide essential skills that meet the needs of the current job market.
5. How is the district fostering partnerships with businesses?
The district collaborates with over 100 business partners to shape the CTE curriculum and provide hands-on training, starting from elementary through to high school.
Key Features of CTE Enrollment Growth
| Center Name | Students Enrolled | Courses Offered | Percentage Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Ashley High School | 700 | 1,100 | N/A |
| Cooper River Center for Advanced Studies | 750 | 1,150 | 44% |
| East Cooper Center for Advanced Studies | 1,800 | 2,800 | N/A |
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Additional Resources
- Live 5 News: Charleston County Schools See Jump in Career and Technical Education Programs
- Wikipedia: Career and Technical Education
- K12 Dive: 3 CTE Directors Share Tips for Strong School-Business Partnerships
- Google Search: Career Technical Education
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Career and Technical Education
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