What's Happening?
The Tomball Independent School District in Texas has made significant investments in its career and technical education (CTE) programs. This includes acquiring the property of a bankrupt oil-services company to build a comprehensive career-and-technical
campus. Superintendent Martha Salazar-Zamora, recognized as an EdWeek 2026 Leader To Learn From, has been instrumental in this development. The district aims to provide a wide range of CTE pathways, from commercial piloting to master electrician certification, to equip students with skills for future job markets. The district faces challenges in selecting which CTE pathways to develop, considering technological advancements and economic trends. Community partnerships play a crucial role, with regular meetings involving local leaders and institutions to support the CTE initiatives.
Why It's Important?
The expansion of CTE programs in Tomball reflects a broader trend in education to align student skills with evolving job markets. By offering diverse career pathways, the district is addressing the need for practical skills that can lead to immediate employment opportunities, potentially altering the economic trajectories of students and their families. This approach challenges the traditional perception that CTE is less rigorous than college-preparatory programs, highlighting the value of trades and technical skills in today's economy. The initiative also underscores the importance of community involvement in educational development, ensuring that programs meet local and national economic needs.
What's Next?
The district plans to focus on cybersecurity as a new CTE pathway, responding to the growing demand for skills in this area. Continued collaboration with community leaders and institutions will be essential to maintain support and ensure the programs' relevance. The district will likely continue to evaluate and adapt its offerings based on technological advancements and economic trends, aiming to prepare students for jobs that may not yet exist.
