Bedford County Public Schools (BCPS) proudly announces outstanding results from an annual performance report issued by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) in regards to its Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. The school division continues to surpass expectations with results well above the state average.Bedford County’s exceptional performance in CTE programs emphasizes its dedication to preparing students for success in both post-secondary education and the workforce.
The VDOE annually reports on the effectiveness and quality of CTE programs across the Commonwealth on various metrics, including four-year graduation rate, academic proficiency, post-program placement, nontraditional program, attained recognized postsecondary credential, and program quality. Bedford County Public Schools earned a 100% four-year graduation rate for the 2022-2023 school year, meaning all of the 283 enrolled CTE students earned an Advanced Studies Diploma, International Baccalaureate Diploma, or Standard Diploma.
Dr. Marc Bergin, Superintendent of Bedford County Public Schools, expressed pride in the accomplishments of the students and faculty, stating, “These exceptional results reflect the dedication and hard work of our students, educators, and community partners. In keeping with our strategic planning efforts, we remain committed to providing students with the highest quality CTE programs that prepare them for success in their chosen careers.”
The school division has 62 total career pathways through the CTE courses offered at Susie G. Gibson Science and Technology Center and the school division’s other secondary schools, which far outnumber those of the surrounding school divisions. The percentage of BCPS students who meet the VDOE academic proficiency standard, including special populations, far exceeds the state standards in all academic areas. The percentage of BCPS underrepresented gender groups in CTE programming is at its highest over the past 7 years, and the percentage of CTE completers — students who successfully transition from secondary school to employment, military, or further education — was near perfect at 98%.
With February being CTE Appreciation Month, the school division would like to offer its thanks to the many community partners on the CTE Advisory Committee including the Bedford County Department of Economic Development, Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce, Division of Labor & Industry, VA Career Works, and Central Virginia Community College for their assistance in creating internships, apprenticeships and other work-based learning experiences.
Bedford County looks forward to building upon its success and continuing to elevate CTE programs to new heights, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to pursue their passions and achieve their full potential. The school division will celebrate the senior class of CTE Completers at an upcoming “CTE Signing Day,” which will be held on May 7, 2024. More information will be forthcoming closer to the date of the event.
