Remember VACE? Our Vocational, Adult and Community Education Department? Well, it’s now known as Career, Technical and Adult/Community Education (CTACE). And with a new name comes a new mission: "providing quality programs that ensure success for students of all ages." It’s a firm commitment reached by consensus of department leaders. Yes, "students of all ages," and they mean it! Folks in their 90s learning English? Absolutely. Three-year olds in family literacy programs? And why not? Has there even been a concrete "begin" or "end" date to education? It’s a journey this department loves to lead.

CTACE has developed a revised set of beliefs that all of us should keep in mind:

• Our role is to prepare youth and adults for a successful career and to be productive members of society.

• The mastery of reading and math on or above grade level is essential for success in a technical or adult education program of study.

• Academic achievement + technological competence = success in postsecondary education/college and in a career.

• The alignment of curriculum, equipment and facilities is a key factor for increasing student achievement in technical programs.

• Real learning occurs when the student can apply what has been learned in multiple settings both inside and outside of school.

• Economic development and workforce development are interrelated and codependent.

• The role of District staff is to communicate effectively with our customers, listen and respond appropriately to their identified needs and provide effective leadership and support.

• Career and technical education programs make academics more relevant, thereby increasing student achievement levels.

• Students and teachers have unique strengths that should be utilized and built upon in the teaching and learning process.

• Students who complete CTACE Programs are better prepared for life.

So, congratulations, CTACE! Keep up the great work you’re doing at the technical centers, middle and high schools, community schools and our adult learning centers.