School district gives tour to state’s School Board Association

The Lenape Regional High School District welcomed Dr. Timothy J. Purnell, executive director and CEO of the New Jersey School Boards Association, for a tour of several facilities on Jan. 30.

Lenape board of ed member Barry Fitzgerald, district and school staffers welcomed Purnell for a visit that focused on career education programs. Among highlights was a look at the Construction, Building and Carpentry Career (CBC) pathway at Cherokee High School, where students engage in learning aligned with the skilled trades.

The program – taught by Adam Parker – is open to any current or rising Lenape student from Evesham, Medford, Medford Lakes, Mount Laurel, Shamong, Southampton, Tabernacle and Woodland. Upon its completion, students will have gained skills in and knowledge about contracting principles, rough and finish carpentry, electrical, plumbing and masonry.

In addition, students will be able to read and design blueprints, use layout tools, coordinate between different roles found on a job site, and understand many of the career opportunities available to them after graduation. Parker showcased the curriculum and current projects and answered questions.

Seneca High automotive teacher Rebecca Ellis showcased the school’s Automotive Career Pathway, which prepares students with industry-aligned training and real-world experience. The program enables students to blend work experience with a curriculum that will lead to Automotive Service Excellence certification, and it provides a streamlined path to professional certification following high school.

During junior and senior year – or when participants turn 17 and are able to transport themselves – students attend class and accumulate work experience at local automotive businesses.

The tour was meant to underscore the district’s continued commitment to career readiness, applied learning and student success.