Creteau Tech center recognizes almost 150 who complete career training courses

Students who completed the Teacher of Multiple Levels program receive their certificates at the Completers Ceremony on June 1. (Photo Courtesy Aurora Gable and Tyler Carpenter, Rochester Public Schools)

ROCHESTER - Almost 150 students who completed Career Technical Education programs were recognized at the 2022 Completers Ceremony at the Richard W. Creteau Regional Technology Center recently.

The 145 students who completed one of the 17 CTE programs offered at the center represented the highest number of students to complete programs since 132 students did in 2020, just as the COVID-19 pandemic was starting.

"More and more students are seeing how beneficial CTE education is," said Director of Career Technical Education Michele Halligan-Foley. "These programs enable students to experience potential careers while also building skills and earning certifications that will assist them on their pathways forward in life."

Many of the 145 students who completed CTE programs this year were able to begin earning early college credits as part of their programs, as well as certifications and licenses specific to their program. Many of the juniors who completed programs will now pursue extended learning opportunities and paid internships in their area of study during their senior year.

Halligan-Foley said administrators are trying to get students into CTE programs earlier, because that way, they can complete programs before their senior year, which will enable more students to pursue Extended Learning Opportunities and paid internships after completing programs.

"This year we recognize 145 Completers who have worked hard, demonstrated skills and experiences to think critically, solve problems, communicate and work as a team," Halligan-Foley said during the ceremony. "These completers have the tools necessary to live a productive and full life. Many take away college credits and industry-recognized certifications and credentials."

Digital Photography & Video Production program students Aurora Gable and Tyler Carpenter photographed the ceremony for the school.

Ashley Trogler is a CTE Ambassador for the Createau Center who spoke about her experience with the Business Program at the completers ceremony.

"Through this process, I have found a love for business which has given me real-world experience and even narrowed down the options as to what I would like to study," Trogler said. "I will take away many different skills with me because of CTE programs, some of which consist of how to speak in a business professional manner, collaborate on work with my peers, and presentation skills that I otherwise would have never discovered."

Shelby Mackey is another CTE Ambassador who spoke during the ceremony and who completed the Health Science Program.

"I will take away numerous skills including teamwork, a better understanding of leadership, and how to properly direct my attention and drive in the best path for me," Mackey said.