Brevard Public Schools Announces 5-year Career and Technical Education Program Expansion

By  //  June 21, 2024

Discussions are underway to bring CTE programs to Westshore Jr./Sr. High School

Brevard Public Schools unveiled a 5-year expansion plan for its Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs during the June 18 School Board Work Session. Rachel Rutledge, Director of Career and Technical Education, above, highlighted the projected impact of this expansion. (BPS image)
Brevard Public Schools Students Earn High Marks On State Assessments, District Sees Increase Across the BoardRelated Story:
Brevard Public Schools Students Earn High Marks On State Assessments, District Sees Increase Across the Board

BREVARD COUNTY • VIERA, FLORIDA — Brevard Public Schools officials unveiled a 5-year expansion plan for its Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs during the June 18 school board workhop.

This plan aims to introduce 18 new CTE programs across Brevard County geared to enhancing educational opportunities and workforce readiness for students.

A Brevard Public Schools spokesperson said there are plans to add new programs to include agriculture operations, machining, artificial intelligence, firefighting, diesel maintenance, natural resources, advanced manufacturing, electric, culinary arts, advanced aerospace technologies in partnership with both Embry Riddle Aeronautical University and Florida Institute of Technology, emergency medical responder, JROTC in partnership with Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, aviation assembly and fabrication, space mechatronics, patient care assisting and technical design.

Discussions are also underway to bring CTE programs to Westshore Jr./Sr. High School, making CTE offerings available to students across all high schools within Brevard Public Schools.

Rachel Rutledge, Director of Career and Technical Education, highlighted the projected impact of this expansion.

“Through this initiative, our CTE programs are equipping Brevard Public Schools graduates with the critical skills needed for the jobs of tomorrow,” said Rutledge.

“Families will now have an array of options to prepare their students for both college and career opportunities within our public school system. We are excited about the growth and evolution of our programs, particularly in relation to the advancements specific to the Space Coast.”

EDUCATION SPOTLIGHT: Student Achievement Soars as Discipline is Restored in Brevard Public SchoolsRelated Story:
EDUCATION SPOTLIGHT: Student Achievement Soars as Discipline is Restored in Brevard Public Schools
Palm Bay Magnet High School Fire Academy is located at Palm Bay Magnet High School, where they offer 9-1-1 dispatch and criminal justice programs. Any student dreaming of entering public service is encouraged to research the offerings at PBMHS. (BCFR image)

Currently, Brevard Public Schools serves over 111 CTE programs across 15 of its 16 public schools, including Brevard Virtual School.

Career and Technical Education programs provide opportunities and incentives for the students to include internships, on-the-job high school credit, certifications and direct hiring opportunities.

Partnerships with major community organizations offer knowledge and skills to students that can be directly applied to local workforce needs.

“The expansion amplifies Brevard Public Schools’ commitment to prepare students for success in career pathways and offer those that align closely with the dynamic industry demands and growth of the Space Coast,” said a BPS spokesperson.

“As CTE programs continue to evolve, they continuously drive prosperity across Brevard County and give students the tools to succeed in their future.”

CLICK HERE for more information about Brevard Public Schools’ Career and Technical Education programs.

Brevard Schools Foundation, Embraer Foundation and the Eau Gallie High School Aviation training program have partnered to educate and train the next generation of aviation mechanics. (BPS image)
Embraer Foundation Provides $12,500 Grant to Eau Gallie High’s ‘NxtGen’ Aviation ProgramRelated Story:
Embraer Foundation Provides $12,500 Grant to Eau Gallie High’s ‘NxtGen’ Aviation Program