What's Happening?
Temple High School's Career and Technical Education (CTE) program has been honored with the Phoenix Award by Workforce Solutions of Central Texas. This recognition was given for the school's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) initiative, which involved
11 seniors assisting over 200 community members with tax returns, resulting in more than $300,000 in refunds. The program, supported by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, provided students with paid internships and transportation support. Jessica Cuellar, an accounting teacher at Temple High School, was also awarded for her role in the program, which emphasized tax fundamentals and soft skills development.
Why It's Important?
The recognition of Temple High School's CTE program underscores the importance of integrating practical work experience with academic learning. By participating in the VITA program, students not only gain valuable skills in tax preparation but also contribute positively to their community. This initiative highlights the role of educational institutions in workforce development and community service, providing students with real-world experience that enhances their employability. The program's success demonstrates the potential for similar educational models to be adopted elsewhere, benefiting both students and local communities.
What's Next?
The success of the VITA program at Temple High School may encourage other educational institutions to adopt similar initiatives, fostering partnerships with local organizations to provide students with practical experience. Workforce Solutions of Central Texas and the United Way of Central Texas may continue to support and expand such programs, potentially increasing the number of students and community members involved. This could lead to broader community engagement and further economic benefits for the region.
