Good schools = good community = good schools

Did you know a high-quality public school system makes people more satisfied with their communities, whether they have kids or not?
Researchers at the Economic Opportunity Institute found “it’s not simply the case that good schools happen to be located in good communities. Rather, public schools actually contribute to that satisfaction, above and beyond other common explanations, such as high rates of homeownership or job availability – and for everyone.”
I can see a chicken-or-egg argument unfolding about good schools and good communities, but one thing for sure is we have both. The Lawrence County School System (LCSS) is both a product of and a contributing factor to the quality of life we all enjoy.
A good example is the amazing LCSS Career Technical Education (CTE) program. It continues to grow and excel thanks to incredible educators, and enjoys great support from partners in every segment of this community. It also gives students the skills to pursue satisfying careers that support their families. In short, it prepares them to be contributing members of a good community.
On Monday, April 28, over 500 students of all ages were recognized at the CTE Night of Stars. CTE Director Hope Thomason explained that the event celebrated students who won regional and state competitions and serve as officers in Career Technical Student organizations. Elementary and middle school students were honored for earning a spot in state Lego and drone competitions. New Prospect middle school Skills USA students will compete at the 2025 SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference in Atlanta next month.
Students were recognized as “completers” (think about the value that trait produces) for finishing three or more courses in a program of study. Several students are completers in more than one program, Thomason added.
Some areas of study have been around for years, others are new – proof that LCSS stays on top of the skills students need in the real world. CTE programs are:
Agriculture
Automotive
Business
Construction
Cosmetology
Digital design
Drone, Middle School
Engineering/STEM
Lego League
Health Science
Human Services
Teaching as a Profession
Welding
LCSS also offers students the opportunity to earn industry certifications in many of these fields, which gives them a leg up in the job market and postsecondary schools.